The world of horological collecting exploded in November 2017 with the sale of a legendary timepiece: Paul Newman's personal Rolex Daytona, a 6239 reference, fetching a staggering $17,752,500 at Phillips in New York. This wasn't just a record-breaking sale for a Rolex Daytona; it shattered the previous record for the highest-priced wristwatch ever sold at auction, cementing its place in history as more than just a watch – it's a cultural icon. The sale solidified the Paul Newman Daytona's position as the most coveted and expensive Rolex Daytona ever, a status that continues to influence the market today.
This article delves into the fascinating story behind this exceptional timepiece, exploring its historical significance, the factors contributing to its astronomical price, and the broader impact it has had on the world of luxury watch collecting. We’ll also examine the related queries surrounding the sale, including the identity of the buyer, the price range of other Paul Newman Daytonas and standard Daytonas, and the ongoing demand for this iconic model.
The Most Expensive Rolex Daytona: A Legacy Forged in Time
Before the November 2017 auction, the world of luxury watches had already witnessed incredible prices for rare and exceptional pieces. However, the Paul Newman Daytona transcended the typical realms of investment and collecting. It became a symbol, representing not only the pinnacle of horological craftsmanship but also the enduring legacy of a Hollywood icon and the enduring allure of a specific design. The watch, a stainless steel Rolex Cosmograph Daytona reference 6239 with its distinctive "Paul Newman" dial, was far more than just a functional timekeeping instrument. Its unique characteristics—the exotic dial with its unusual sub-dials, the contrasting colors, and the overall aesthetic—combined with its provenance, created a perfect storm of desirability.
The “Paul Newman” dial itself is a key element in understanding the watch's exceptional value. While the exact origins of the nickname remain somewhat debated, it's widely accepted that the design, with its unusual sub-dial configuration, became linked to the actor after images surfaced of him wearing a similar watch. This association with a style icon significantly boosted the desirability of Daytonas featuring this specific dial. The combination of the rare 6239 reference and the highly sought-after Paul Newman dial made this particular watch an exceptionally rare and desirable item.
Rolex Daytona 6239 for Sale: A Collector's Dream (and a Pricey One)
The Rolex Daytona 6239, even without the Paul Newman dial, is a highly collectible watch. Produced from the mid-1960s to the early 1970s, the 6239 represents an important era in Rolex's history. These watches are relatively rare, and finding one in good condition, especially with its original box and papers, is a significant achievement for any collector. However, the price range for a 6239 varies dramatically depending on its condition, dial variation (including the presence or absence of the Paul Newman dial), and overall provenance. While a standard 6239 in good condition might fetch a substantial sum in the hundreds of thousands of dollars, those with unique features or strong provenance can reach into the millions. The sheer rarity of these watches, combined with their historical significance, makes them a prized possession for serious collectors.
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