ROLEX | COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA "SMALL DAYTONA", REFERENCE 6240 A STAINLESS STEEL CHRONOGRAPH WRISTWATCH WITH BRACELET, CIRCA 1966

Dial: blackCalibre: cal. 722 mechanical, 17 jewelsCase: stainless steel, screw down case backCase number: 1'438'977Closure: stainless steel Rolex Oyster rivet bracelet and folding claspSize: 37 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 175 mmSigned: case, dial and movement

The movement is in working condition at the time of cataloguing. The chronograph function is working properly. The dial is in very good overall condition. The bezel with minor signs of wear at 2 o'clock, however it is very attractive and correct to the date. The band with some light surface wear. The pusher and crown is correct and very attractive. The case back with minor surface wear to the center, however the millings remain very sharp. The bracelet is in very good overall condition and correct the it's period and is stamped for 1966. The dial is very attractive and all lumes react well under UV. Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense. Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band. Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.
"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."

With many varieties and versions of vintage Rolex Daytonas, the reference 6240 is arguably one of the most fascinating and important references to have taken the stage amongst other examples. Not only is the watch presented with the attractive early screw down pushers and a MK1 black bezel, it is also the first reference to be given the word “Oyster” on the dial. This specific transition represents Rolex’s great quality in watchmaking and especially its ability in creating watches that are waterproof. The present model is fitted with a highly popular 6240 “Small Daytona” which is noted without the word “Oyster” but instead “Daytona” in a small font at 12 o’clock. The Daytona signature appeared on different places of the dial until it found its spot above the 12 hour register. Consigned by an important collector, this example completes at every level with original parts and very crisp condition.