Rolex

The chronograph range of watches from Rolex was designed and engineered essentially as tool watches. Their durability, accuracy, and readability were paramount, and as such, they were overwhelmingly constructed of stainless steel. However, over the years, some discerning clients chose their sports watches in precious metals, primarily 18k yellow gold, but also in some instances, and primarily for the US market, in 14K gold. (This was a practical solution to the tax implications of importing 18k into the USA).

Produced by Rolex only between 1965 and 1969, the Ref 6241 has become one of the most iconic versions of the Daytona. This was the watch that introduced the signature black (acrylic) bezel to the Daytona model, a striking part of the models design that lives on today in the current Rolex catalog with the black ceramic bezel Ref 116500 Daytona. The Ref 6241 was offered with a handful of dial configurations. It is thought that there were in the region of 3000 examples of the 6241 made in total across all metal types and configurations. In terms of rarity however, the current watch, with a 14k yellow gold case, black grené ‘Nero Dial’ with champagne-colored subsidiary registers, and distinctive oversized ‘Jumbo Daytona Logo’, is one of the rarest of all the Daytona dials ever produced. Only a handful of such examples have been offered to the market over the preceding decades, far fewer than its ‘Paul Newman’ (JPS) dialed brothers.

This example has never been offered to the market before and is presented in excellent condition. The case, with a correct early 1.5m serial number, is in superb condition and retains its original full proportions with hallmarks clearly visible under the lugs and retaining its original 14k 6241 case back. It should also be noted that the movement, a Valjoux 722, has the ROW designation stamped to the bridge, indicating that the original destination of the watch was the North American market.

This watch has been retained by the same family since being purchased by the wife for the husband to commemorate the beginning of two concurrent big new adventures in their life - the launch of a new business and the coming arrival of a child. The classic gold Rolex Daytona has always been a visible symbol of success and taste, and this watch was worn throughout its owner’s life of business, car racing, sailing, and much more until his passing in the late 90s. The watch was passed from father to wife and subsequently to son on the event of his wedding in 2010, where it has enjoyed only occasional use since.

This is truly a connoisseur's Daytona. More subtle and understated than a Paul Newman example and made in smaller numbers. This represents a rare opportunity to acquire such a rare and desirable example from an important private collection being offered for sale publicly for the very first time.