Important Watches: Part I
Important Watches: Part I
Tropical 'Paul Newman Panda' Daytona, Ref. 6264, Stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with bracelet Made in 1971 | 勞力士 | 6264型號「'Paul Newman Panda' Daytona」精鋼計時鍊帶腕錶,1971年製
Auction Closed
November 10, 02:59 PM GMT
Estimate
200,000 - 400,000 CHF
Lot Details
Description
Rolex
'Paul Newman Panda' Daytona, Ref. 6264
Stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with bracelet
Made in 1971
Dial: white 'panda', tropical subsidiary dials
Calibre: cal. 727 manual winding, 17 jewels
Case: stainless steel, screw-down back
Case number: 2'372'885
Closure: stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet and folding clasp
Dimensions: 37 mm, bracelet circumference approx. 190 mm
Signed: case, dial and movement
Box: no
Papers: no
Accessories: Rolex Atelier de Restoration invoice, restauration booklet, restauration warranty, travel pouch and presentation case with outer packaging
This reference 6264, like the 6262, was produced for only one or two years. It features the caliber 727 and it is believed that less than 1700 examples of the 6264 in stainless steel were ever made.
Moreover, this watch is equipped with a 'Panda Paul Newman' dial. The 'Paul Newman' dials were at the time very unpopular, but have gained a place of choice among collectors. The 6264 reference is considered as the rarest 'Paul Newman' Daytona because of the short production of this model, but also because it is the last model to have the pump pushers as opposed to the later screw-down ones.
This watch was serviced by Rolex Restoration in 2020. The Atelier de Restoration is meant for the brand's most iconic models. Before the restoration, the watchmaker verifies the authenticity of the components of the watch. Overall, during the restoration process, they will preferably restore components rather than change them. For the parts that need changing, they will be crafted with a strong attention to the original aesthetics. Rolex have confirmed that for this particular watch the crown, tube and pushers were replaced and that all other components remain original. What is more they confirmed that the dial had minute surface debris removed and that no other work was undertaken.
This watch is one of the few watches which been through Rolex restoration program that has been offered to the market. It is a rare occasion where a vintage watch of this importance has such guarantees around the authenticity of its components.
The present lot has thus been preserved in superb condition, the case remains full and the dial crisp and clean retaining the original hands. The lume to the hands and dial are original also, having taken on a rich patina that is consistent throughout.