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70

Rolex

Ref. 6239

Cosmograph Daytona

An uncommon, attractive and very well preserved stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with blue "Daytona" designation and bracelet

Estimate
CHF40,000 - 80,000
€40,900 - 81,800
$43,700 - 87,500
CHF60,960
Lot Details
Manufacturer
Rolex
Year
Circa 1970
Reference No
6239
Case No
2’377’619; inside caseback stamped “6239”
Model Name
Cosmograph Daytona
Material
Stainless steel
Calibre
Manual, cal.722-1, 17 jewels
Bracelet/Strap
Stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet, max length 200mm
Clasp/Buckle
Stainless steel Rolex deployant clasp
Dimensions
36mm Diameter
Signed
Case, dial, movement, bracelet and clasp signed
Catalogue Essay
The first Cosmograph Daytona, known as the reference 6239, marked Rolex's entry into the chronograph realm when it debuted in 1963, remaining in production until approximately 1976. Offered in stainless steel and 18K yellow gold, this model boasted a groundbreaking feature: the tachymeter scale engraved on its bezel, a first for the brand. Originally marketed as the "Le Mans," it gained its enduring moniker, the "Daytona," after Rolex became a sponsor of the 24 Hours of Daytona race.

Adding to the allure of this particular Daytona is the distinctive blue fading of the signature at 6 o’clock, originally rendered in white. This anomaly, caused by a pigment defect, has transformed the signature into a captivating light blue hue, adding a unique charm to the timepiece. Bearing a 2.3 million serial from circa 1970, the current 6239 showcases a robust case. Notably, the silver print contrasts beautifully with the charming faded baby blue inscription.

Sure to delight discerning collectors who appreciate the racing legends, the present Rolex Daytona reference 6239 is further offered in excellent overall condition further elevating this timepieces desirability.

Rolex

Swiss | 1905
Founded in 1905 England by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis as Wilsdorf & Davis, it soon became known as the Rolex Watch Company in 1915, moving its headquarters to Geneva in 1919. Like no other company, the success of the wristwatch can be attributed to many of Rolex's innovations that made them one of the most respected and well-known of all luxury brands. These innovations include their famous "Oyster" case — the world's first water resistant and dustproof watch case, invented in 1926 — and their "Perpetual" — the first reliable self-winding movement for wristwatches launched in 1933. They would form the foundation for Rolex's Datejust and Day-Date, respectively introduced in 1945 and 1956, but also importantly for their sports watches, such as the Explorer, Submariner and GMT-Master launched in the mid-1950s.One of its most famous models is the Cosmograph Daytona. Launched in 1963, these chronographs are without any doubt amongst the most iconic and coveted of all collectible wristwatches. Other key collectible models include their most complicated vintage watches, including references 8171 and 6062 with triple calendar and moon phase, "Jean Claude Killy" triple date chronograph models and the Submariner, including early "big-crown" models and military-issued variants.
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