Custom Rolex Daytona by Artisans de Genève: A Collector's Personalized Vision

perregaux1 · 2020-11-18T07:13:16Z

Explore perregaux1's custom Rolex Daytona by Artisans de Genève, featuring a 'Hulk' green dial and pump pushers. A unique take on customization.

perregaux1

WPS member · Rolex forum

42 replies15713 views1 photos

In a bold move that challenges traditional purist views, perregaux1 commissioned a custom Rolex Daytona from Artisans de Genève. This article delves into his unique vision for a green-dialed, pump-pusher Daytona, a customization that sparks lively debate and offers a fascinating look into the world of personalized luxury watches. perregaux1's journey highlights the evolving landscape of watch collecting, where individual expression can sometimes supersede conventional brand aesthetics.

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Hi guys, i recently took the plunge to get a custom Rolex made for me. Here's how it looks from the concept sketch. I guess most purists would disapprove. But I thought why not and took the plunge when they responded with a yes after I registered my interest when they opened up the option on their website. That was a few months ago and the watch would be arriving in a week or two. I will post the real life photos when it arrives.

I chose green because of its relation with something i care about. I chose this Daytona as the starting point because i liked Artisans de Geneve original Tribute to 6263 model they made a while back. I've always wanted Rolex to make stainless steel Daytona with green dial, but they never did. I never liked the Daytona screw down pushers, so i chose the old style pump pushers. There are more customisations for caseback, but i'll wait until i get the watch to post the real life photos.

So what do you think? it's ok, i won't get offended... Thanks

About the Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263

The Rolex Daytona reference 6263 represents a significant evolution within the Daytona chronograph line, distinguished by its screw-down pushers and the introduction of a black acrylic bezel. This reference, produced during the 1970s, is part of the manual-wind era of Daytonas, preceding the automatic movement versions. It is recognized for its robust construction and enhanced water resistance compared to earlier non-Oyster models, making it a practical choice for daily wear while retaining a classic aesthetic.

This reference features a 37mm stainless steel case, housing the Valjoux 727 manual-winding chronograph movement. The Valjoux 727 is an updated version of the Valjoux 72, known for its reliability and precision. The watch is fitted with an acrylic crystal and offers a water resistance of 50 meters. Its power reserve is approximately 45 hours, typical for movements of this period, providing consistent timekeeping for extended periods between winding.

For collectors, the 6263 is notable for its blend of vintage charm and improved functionality. It appeals to those who appreciate the design language of early Daytonas but seek the added security of screw-down pushers. Variants often include different dial configurations, such as the silver dial with black sub-dials or the reverse "panda" dial, which contribute to its diverse appeal within the vintage watch market. The black acrylic tachymeter bezel is a defining characteristic.

Specifications

Caliber: Valjoux 727

Case: Stainless steel

Diameter: 37 mm

Dial: Silver

Water Resist.: 50m

Crystal: Acrylic

Key Points from the Discussion

The combination of 'Oyster' on the dial with pump pushers is a point of contention, as 'Oyster' historically signified increased water resistance achieved with screw-down pushers.
Artisans de Genève (AdG) explained that the 'Oyster' designation remains valid because they maintain the Oyster waterproofing system, even with the modified pump pushers.
The aesthetic choice of pump pushers on a Daytona, while reminiscent of vintage models like the 6263 or 6239, also draws comparisons to the Omega Speedmaster's pusher design.
Rolex will not service customized watches, but perregaux1 is comfortable with this, noting the availability of reputable independent watch service options and AdG's own 5-year service warranty.
perregaux1 specifically requested a green dial similar to the 'Hulk' Submariner, emphasizing a sunburst effect, and ultimately received a result he was 90% happy with, despite expecting a slightly lighter shade.
AdG can source new genuine Rolex Daytonas for customization, allowing clients to avoid sending in their own watches.

The Discussion

SALMANPK

Nov 18, 2020

Congrats, looks amazing, can't wait to see your real life pics

Chronometer (aka yacomino)

Nov 18, 2020

I think it looks great! Congrats!

I am interested as well to have a piece from them from one of my Rolex but looking at their website it feels like they are fully busy and are not taking orders...seeing your picture I will try again!

myles721

Nov 18, 2020

Actually I like it more than the original.

nautilus5712g

Nov 18, 2020

Oh noooo....

Forgive me, but that written "Oyster" with the pump buttons just does not suit me. It is against any Rolex tradition .... What a pity this fall in watchmaking Rolex culture ... Luca

descartes1

Nov 18, 2020

I am surprised that they would use the “oyster” designation since it’s well known that was only used on the Daytona only after screw down pusher were used.

Still, very cool that you could customize a piece to your taste and have a one of a kind to enjoy. Congrats!

perregaux1

Nov 18, 2020

new info for me

a little bit disappointed they didnt advise me on that. in fact, their previous creation, tribute to 6263 also had the word oyster and pump pushers. i was just using that model as the starting point for my piece.