- 482
ROLEX | 'PAUL NEWMAN PANDA' DAYTONA, REF 6263STAINLESS STEEL CHRONOGRAPH WRISTWATCH WITH BRACELETCIRCA 1969
Estimate
300,000 - 500,000 CHF
Sold
412,500 CHF
bidding is closed
Description
- 'PAUL NEWMAN PANDA' DAYTONA, REF 6263STAINLESS STEEL CHRONOGRAPH WRISTWATCH WITH BRACELETCIRCA 1969
Dial: white 'Panda' Calibre: cal. 727 manual winding, 17 jewels Case: stainless steel, screw-down back Case number: 2'085'601 Closure: stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet and folding clasp Dimensions: 37.5 mm, bracelet circumference approx. 190 mm Signed: case, dial and movement Accessories: none
Catalogue Note
The Rolex ‘Paul Newman’ Daytona carries with it many fascinating stories of its creation and path to fame. Its association to the world-renowned endurance race ‘24 Hours of Daytona’ and to actor Paul Newman (who participated in the race with this model and featured it in several of his films) has truly established the model’s place in history as one of the most iconic wristwatches of all time. Reference 6263 bearing the ‘Paul Newman Panda’ dial is certainly considered the holy grail of watches. Finding this reference in good condition is extremely difficult in today’s complex and exponentially growing Rolex Vintage market. Therefore, provenance and history are of upmost importance, and key to finding this rare example in original condition.
Sotheby’s is proud to present this lot from its original and sole owner, who acquired the watch at Bucherer in the mid-1970s. It is important to note the extraordinary condition of the piece. According to its owner, it has been seen by a watchmaker only once for simple movement verification with one indication of intervention, evidence of which can be seen on the inside case back.
The serial number 2'085'601 indicates a very early version of reference 6263. The watch is fitted with an ‘MK 1 Panda’ dial featuring an attractive ivory hue and MK1 bezel, perfectly corresponding to the first models produced. The remarkable condition of the present model is exemplified by the first generation ‘millerighe’ pushers. The inside case back is stamped ‘6239’ and the dial, which is a key element to any ‘Paul Newman’, is at its best. The engravings and graphics are clearly defined, and the luminous dots are still intact.
Sotheby’s is proud to present this lot from its original and sole owner, who acquired the watch at Bucherer in the mid-1970s. It is important to note the extraordinary condition of the piece. According to its owner, it has been seen by a watchmaker only once for simple movement verification with one indication of intervention, evidence of which can be seen on the inside case back.
The serial number 2'085'601 indicates a very early version of reference 6263. The watch is fitted with an ‘MK 1 Panda’ dial featuring an attractive ivory hue and MK1 bezel, perfectly corresponding to the first models produced. The remarkable condition of the present model is exemplified by the first generation ‘millerighe’ pushers. The inside case back is stamped ‘6239’ and the dial, which is a key element to any ‘Paul Newman’, is at its best. The engravings and graphics are clearly defined, and the luminous dots are still intact.