Important Watches
Important Watches
Reference 6239 'Floating' Daytona | A stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with bracelet, Circa 1967
Auction Closed
June 5, 07:33 PM GMT
Estimate
40,000 - 80,000 USD
Lot Details
Description
Dial: black
Caliber: cal. 72B mechanical, 17 jewels
Case: stainless steel, screw down case back
Case number: 1'597'683
Closure: stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet with folding clasp
Size: 37 mm diameter, bracelet circumference is approximately 180 mm
Signed: case, dial, and movement
Box: yes
Papers: no
Accessories: Rolex presentation box and outer packaging, and purchase invoice from Begeer, Van Kempen, & Vos dated August 21, 1971
Rolex's Cosmograph Daytona stands as one of the most iconic and coveted wristwatches among collectors today, with a legendary evolution. Revered for its classic design, durability, and strong masculine appeal, it has earned its place in horological history. The first to bear the official name Daytona Cosmograph, the reference 6239 debuted in 1963, distinguishing itself with a stainless steel tachymeter bezel and sub-dials sporting inverted colors compared to the main dial. This departure from the monochromatic scheme and the addition of the tachymeter scale enhanced the dial's legibility and imbued it with a sporty, aggressive aesthetic.
The present wristwatch features a black dial adorned with a small white "Floating Daytona" designation beneath the signature at 12 o'clock. This unique feature, found only on a handful of examples, earned its name because the 'Daytona' designation is positioned closer to the center of the dial, distinct from the other script, giving it the appearance of floating on the dial. We are pleased to offer this special configuration of the reference 6239.