This exceptionally rare Rolex Cosmograph Daytona reference 6265 “Big Red” is a highly important example produced as a special order for the Libyan Armed Forces, Officers Section, during the late 1970s to early 1980s under the Gaddafi regime. At a time when elite officers were distinguished through select technical instruments delivered directly by state authority, Rolex accepted discreet institutional commissions that resulted in a very small number of Daytona watches being allocated to high-ranking military personnel.

This particular piece displays all the hallmarks of such a delivery, most notably the presence of the full serial number engraved inside the caseback, perfectly matching the external case serial between the lugs, a security and traceability practice exclusive to special-order military allocations. This duplication of the serial confirms its issuance within a controlled distribution channel, reserved only for the most privileged officers.

The watch features the highly sought-after “Big Red” dial configuration, with the bold red DAYTONA inscription above the 6 o’clock register, classic black dial with contrasting white sub-registers, and correct period fonts and printing, a configuration recognized as one of the most desirable and celebrated variants within the manual-wind Daytona lineage.

The stainless steel Oyster case with screw-down pushers and tachymeter bezel is preserved in correct original condition, housing the revered manual-wind calibre 727, Rolex’s most advanced chronograph movement of the era, engineered for durability and precision under rigorous use. The matching stainless steel Oyster bracelet completes this highly coherent and fully authentic ensemble.

Very few Daytona models are documented with confirmed military provenance, and even fewer carry authenticated Libyan Armed Forces connections. The convergence of “Big Red” desirability, special institutional delivery, and internal serial engraving elevates this watch into a category of extraordinary importance, where iconic sport-chronograph design meets geopolitical history.

A truly significant collector’s piece, and unquestionably one of the most historically compelling configurations within the entire vintage Daytona spectrum, a remarkable opportunity for the connoisseur pursuing the rarest expression of Rolex’s most legendary chronograph.