Rolex

Launched in 1955, Rolex chronograph Reference 6234 is famous for being the Godfather of the Rolex Daytona. Produced until around 1961, the 6234 would go on to inspire the 'Pre-Daytona' reference 6238, and the Daytona References 6239, 6240, 6241, 6263, and 6265.

Powered by Valjoux caliber 72 A, the 6234 is further equipped with magnetic resistance, aiding in maintaining the timepiece’s precision and accuracy. During its 6-year production run, approximately 2000 examples were cased in stainless steel and fitted with silvered or black dials.

The present 6234 is an extremely rare variant with a black lacquered 'gilt' dial. In exceptional condition, the applied dagger indices accompanied by the original luminous plots further highlight the beautiful glossy finish that has 'tropicaled' to a rich, chocolate brown hue. Highly sought after by collectors, 'tropical' dials are prized not only for their beauty, but also for the fact that no two dials age exactly the same, rendering each tropical dial unique.

The movement housed in the present 6234 is stamped ROW, indicating that the watch was imported to the United States market. We are pleased to offer this exceedingly rare 6234 featuring a gilt dial coupled with the tropical hue, one of the rarest of the rare examples that went on to inspire Rolex's most iconic family of chronographs.