Rolex

• cal. 722-1 manual winding lever movement, 17 jewels • cream dial, applied square indexes with luminescent dots, black outer track with red minute and 1/5 second divisions, three tropical subsidiary dials for constant seconds, 30-minute, and-12 hour registers • stainless steel case, bezel calibrated for 200 units, two chronograph pushers, screw-down crown and back • case, dial and movement signed • with a stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet with folding clasp

The movement and chronograph function working at the time of cataloging. The dial in very good condition. Subsidiary dials with tropical patina. The lume plots are in good condition, part of one at 7 partly missing. They stop immediately to glow after being under black light. The case has been polished in the past and has the usual scuffs and scratches throughout in accordance to age and use. The bracelet is scuffed and loose. Marked 7835, endlinks 271. The guarantee reads case no. 2004272 and not 2004742, this is most probably a human error. Furthermore, it states 6262 instead of 6239, this could be explained by the fact that the 6262 was the current steel bezel model when the watch was sold. Finally, it says the bracelet is 7834 instead if 7835, again most probably a human error.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."

Accompanied by a Rolex Guarantee, booklets, invoice, presentation case and outer packaging.  The reference 6239 was the first Daytona and was introduced in the early 1960's.
It set the standards for Rolex chronographs for nearly 25 years. The watch was made to be the most reliable, precise and easy to read.

The movement, based on the Valjoux 72, was gradually upgraded to achieve the best precision. The dial was produced with contrasting subsidiary counters to facilitate easy and accurate reading. In the same effort, the tachymeter scale was moved from the dial to the bezel. The watch also featured proven elements such as the Oyster bracelet and the screw-down crown and case back.  The result was a robust yet elegant sports tool watch.

It is today regarded as the most iconic and collectible wristwatch ever produced. 

The vintage Daytona world is vast and some references and characteristics are particularly sought-after. The reference 6239 is perhaps the most renowned. Not only is it considered as the 'original' model, but it is also the model Paul Newman himself wore.

The exotic or 'Paul Newman' dial, named after the actor was presumed to have worn one in the 1969 while promoting the film 'Winning', is the most distinctive and striking element. It is recognizable by a white or black dial with contrasting subsidiary dials and outer minute ring. It also has squared hour indexes and divisions in the subsidiary dials. 

The present lot is equipped with its original three-color Paul Newman dial. Nonetheless, what will impress and charm even the long-time collectors is the most-attractive natural tropical patina of the subsidiary dials. Over the years, their color changed from black to an appealing shade of "toffee" brown. This phenomena is caused by the reaction of certain materials of the dial to elements such as the sun and other forms of light. The white part of the dial has also turned to an attractive cream color. Very few examples of Rolex Paul Newman are known which such an appealing patina. What was originally considered as a defect has become today highly desirable and coveted.

Furthermore, this exceptional watch is consigned by its original and only owner.
This 'fresh to the market' piece comes with an incredibly full set, comprising the original guarantee, invoice, box and outer packaging. 

There is no exaggeration in stating that this lot is a trophy piece, a dream come true for a demanding collector.  

Purchased new as a gift in 1975 at the time of its sale the watch was already seven years old and had a price tag of only £134. With a cheque made out for £135, and a £1 note received as change, the watch was packed in its presentation case, its certificate was completed and a receipt written. Ever since, the watch has remained a treasured possession of its original owner and, beneath the cuff of his jacket, the watch was hidden, unknown to the market within which it has now become so incredibly sought after.