Big Red Panda Daytona Review (Ref:6265)

[pdpmojo]

I've searched the forums for reviews on this watch and found that they are few and far in between. I thought I would write a review for those that have not seen or been able to try one of these on.

On the wrist:
The original bracelet was a link or two too small so I tried a few different strap styles before finally settling on a very soft (and comfortable) ostrich strap. Why ostrich? I found a very peculiar connection with Ostriches and motor racing (in some parts of the world Ostrich racing is very popular and can reach land speeds of 43 mph). It's been a good conversation starter and better on the wrist than any calf or croco I have experienced.








I have gotten used to modern watches and their substantive weight. When I first strapped on the 6265 it virtually disappeared on the wrist. I didn't think I would like it but now when I go back to a modern Milgauss, I feel like I have a brick on my wrist.

Case, Dial and Crystal:
This watch is a pure looker. At a distance, it really does not catch the eye. It is virtually invisible to anyone outside of the watch community. I like that. It has a very dressy look to it but on closer inspection, its sport side comes out.

Right off the bat the first thing I noticed was the crown. It's big! A beautiful triplock crown, I think it really makes the watch. Maybe not big by today's standards, but on this 37MM case it stands out. Any thankfully, since it's a manual watch, the big crown is a pure joy to wind.





The dial is very interesting as well. The silver has a sunburst effect and it has a different hue depending on the light source. I am not sure if this is how it came from the factory years ago, but today it has a very warm almost champagne note to it.




Movement and Accuracy (Valjoux 727):
I am completely blown away by this piece's accuracy. It has been within +2/3 seconds per day for the last 2 weeks. This is a 30 year old watch that has most likely never been serviced (will be going to service in a few weeks). It is a pure testament to how robust and bloody accurate these movements were. One thing I noted with the movement is that it is non-hacking and that it is louder than any watch I have had during normal operation and winding. I hope that it continues to run this well for the next 30 years.

Old Vs. New:
There's certainly more charm to the 6265 compared to the 116520; however, you will definitely get more looks and curb appeal for the newer Daytona. As I mentioned above, the old 6265 Daytona is invisible. In terms of size, the vintage certainly wears smaller than the modern Daytona. Side by side, I think the size difference is less apparent. Again, it's in my opinion that the over sized crown is helping that effect quite a bit.



Hope you enjoyed the read. If you ever get the chance to obtain one of these gems, do it and don't look back.