There are many reasons to love vintage watches. Some watches are collectible because of their popularity while others are appreciated because of their historical importance and the stories they have to tell. Rarely can a watch provide satisfaction equally on all three levels, but the following watch does so amply. It is needless to state that the Rolex Cosmograph with “Paul Newman” dial is currently one of the most coveted vintage timepieces, especially with screw-down pushers like the present reference 6265. Adding to the appeal and desirability of this watch is the fact that it comes from its original owner and as such is accompanied by its original box, Rolex guarantee, and invoice dated 1972. In addition, the watch features the correct Mark 2 dial, correct pushers, and bracelet (buckle stamped 2.72) and comes to auction in excellent condition, having been worn only a handful of times.

The owner of this reference 6265 received the watch during his early teens, during which he developed a profound love for motorcross racing – competing at the amateur level with others much older than him. His parents considered the watch suitable for a young man so enthusiastic about motor sports because of the chronograph function and great looks.

However, the watch was treated carefully and worn on very few occasions, including once during a school exam for good luck. The watch eventually spent time near the muddy paths (but carefully hidden under a cuff), as it was used during motocross trips through Scandinavia and Canada during the seventies and eighties.

The owner has now decided to part ways with the his lifelong timekeeper, stating: “I now present it for a new owner to appreciate and cherish, such as I have enjoyed and been so fortunate to own for so many years.”

The present reference 6265 is nicknamed “Panda" due to the dial's exotic black and white color scheme, which mimics the colors on the face of the delightful bear. In an interesting twist of fate, the Daytona chronographs with “Paul Newman” dials, which are avidly sought after today, were quite unpopular upon launch, and this lack of commercial success led Rolex to produce very limited.

The dial of the present lot is superbly preserved and presents a delicate balance of cream and black color scheme that is enhanced by the art deco style of the font used and the hash marks with small squares found on the subsidiary dials so characteristic of “Paul Newman” style dials.

Fitted with a rarely seen steel bezel,fresh to the market from original owner, and in superb condition, this highly sought-after Rolex Cosmograph would make a fine addition to any collection.