908
Rolex
Ref. 6263
Cosmograph Daytona “Paul Newman Panda MK 2"
An extremely well-preserved, attractive and rare stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with "Paul Newman MK2 Panda" dial and bracelet
Full-Cataloguing
- Features a clean, stunning MK 2 "Panda" dial
- Last series of "Paul Newman" dials introduced to the market
- Period correct pushers, bezel and bracelet
- Extremely well-preserved case and dial
The reference 6263 inherited key features from its predecessor, the reference 6240, which was the first Daytona to feature screw-down pushers—making the case fully waterproof and earning it the "Oyster" designation. Introduced in 1969 alongside the reference 6265, both models were powered by the upgraded caliber 727, but the reference 6263 stands out with its striking black acrylic bezel.
Early "Paul Newman" dials featured a three-color scheme in red, white and black, with a red Daytona signature positioned above the 12-hour register at 6 o'clock. Dial variations included a white background with black subsidiary dials, as well as the reverse configuration. As the Rolex Daytona evolved, so did the "exotic" dial; transitional references 6262 and 6264 introduced a two-color black-and-white layout without the red outer track. However, the reference 6263 marked a defining shift with the introduction of the highly sought-after "Paul Newman Panda" dial. Renowned for its clean monochromatic contrast against the black acrylic bezel, this design omitted the red Daytona text and is considered by many to be the quintessential exotic dial.
The present reference 6263 features a stunning MK 2 "Panda" dial, distinguished by serif typography across the entire "Rolex Oyster Cosmograph" text. This dial iteration represents the final evolutionary step and belongs to the last series of "Paul Newman" dials introduced to the market.
Preserved in outstanding overall condition, the watch features an exceptional dial, free of major marks or blemishes. Its white grené surface remains clean and bright, while the original luminous hour markers have aged to an attractive, light ivory tone. The case retains its original "millerighe" pushers, crisp proportions with only light signs of wear. Offered fresh to the auction market complete with a period-correct bracelet and bezel, this lot stands as a trophy timepiece among Paul Newman Daytonas, making it a highly significant acquisition for discerning collectors.
Rolex
Swiss | 1905Founded 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.