Rolex - The Geneva Watch Auction: XVIII Geneva Friday, November 3, 2023 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Rolex
    Year: Circa 1967
    Reference No: 6239
    Case No: 1'597'245
    Model Name: Cosmograph Daytona "Paul Newman"
    Material: Stainless steel
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 722-1, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet, end links stamped 57, max length 175mm
    Clasp/Buckle: Stainless steel Rolex deployant clasp stamped. 1.69
    Dimensions: 37mm Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by Rolex presentation box.

  • Catalogue Essay

    Reference 6239 was the very first model within the iconic Cosmograph Daytona family and was produced from approximately 1963 until 1976. Available in stainless steel, 14K and 18K gold, reference 6239 was the Rolex's first chronograph with the tachymeter scale engraved on the bezel. The model was originally announced as the "Le Mans". It was eventually named the "Daytona” after the 24 Hours of Daytona automobile race.

    One of the most impressive "Paul Newmans" to come on the auction market in recent years, the present watch is a sight to behold. Displaying a black dial with ivory subsidiary registers, this reference 6239 is preserved in almost pristine condition. The outer ivory track remains unblemished, while the luminous dots are all round and intact, matching the hands. Both have aged with warm patina and are very attractive. All graphics are intact and vibrant. Furthermore, the case is incredibly sharp and crisp. This particular dial combination usually shows signs of aging, yet this particular watch is preserved in very impressive condition. Such trophy examples very rarely appear on the market and there is no telling when another example in such condition will appear again. The case is also preserved in exceptional condition with crisp finishes throughout. The case is also preserved in impressive condition with crisp finishes on the top of the lugs and good definition to the bezel. As an interesting touch, an inventory number can be found beneath the lug.

  • Artist Biography

    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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179

Ref. 6239
A highly rare, exceptionally well-preserved and attractive stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with "Paul Newman" dial and bracelet

Circa 1967
37mm Diameter
Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed

Estimate
CHF150,000 - 300,000 
€156,000-311,000
$165,000-330,000

Sold for CHF279,400

Contact Specialist

Alexandre Ghotbi
Deputy Chairman, Watches, Head of Watches, Europe, and Middle East

+41 79 637 17 24
AGhotbi@phillips.com

Tiffany To
Head of Sale, Geneva

+41 79 460 55 88
TiffanyTo@phillips.com

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The Geneva Watch Auction: XVIII

Geneva Auction 3 - 4 November 2023