A Paul Newman model Rolex Daytona chronograph in stainless steel (ref. 6263/6239) sold for $1,089,186 at a Christie’s auction in Geneva on November 10, 2013. The auction honored the 50th anniversary of the Rolex Daytona, which was the first chronograph wristwatch released by the Swiss company.
“On normal dials, “Oyster” is located always between “Rolex” and “Cosmograph”. This holds true also for the white Paul Newman dial. However, on this model the dial reads “Rolex Cosmograph Oyster” instead of the normal “Rolex Oyster Cosmograph”.
Another noteworthy feature is the different font used for the Rolex designation on this dial. Compared to all other Paul Newman dials, except for a few rare dials made for ref. 6262 and 6264, the R is bigger and the serifs more accentuated. Beyond its graphical appeal, this feature enhances the value and desirability of the present timepiece.”
According to Christie’s, the 1969 masterpiece was acquired by a private buyer who wishes to remain anonymous.
