ROLEX | REF 6240 'SMALL FLOATING DAYTONA'A STAINLESS STEEL CHRONOGRAPH WRISTWATCH WITH REGISTERS AND BRACELET CIRCA 1966

Dial: blackCaliber: cal. 722 manual winding movement, 17 jewelsCase: stainless steel, solid screw down case backCase number: 1438962Closure: stainless steel later Rolex Oyster bracelet with folding claspSize: diameter 36 mmSigned: case, dial and movement

CASE The case is in very good overall condition, with light surface scratches visible throughout. In our view, the case has seen a light polishing in its past. DIAL The dial is in very good overall condition. MOVEMENT The movement is running at time of cataloguing, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time or duration of the power reserve and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement. Inside case back stamped 6240. Movement plates with some light surface spots.
"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."

Reference 6240 was the first Daytona to incorporate screw-down pushers.  Manufactured solely in stainless steel, the chronograph also features an acrylic tachometer bezel.  In production from 1965 through 1969, approximately 1,700 pieces were made. The present example features a 'floating' Daytona dial, more often seen on reference 6239 (see Lot 185 for reference 6239 with the 'floating Daytona' dial configuration).  The 1.4 million serial number dates back to 1965 - during the first half of production of reference 6240.  One can speculate that the 'floating' Daytona dials were used to test out the newly added screw-down pushers.

The rarity of reference 6240 coupled with the early 'Floating Daytona' dial further enhances the collectability of this piece.