Lot 102
A highly attractive, beautifully preserved and rare yellow gold chronograph wristwatch with bracelet and "Paul Newman" champagne dial
Sold
CHF680,400
Est CHF400,000 - CHF800,000
Live Auction
THE GENEVA WATCH AUCTION: XVI
ARTIST
Rolex
Size
37mm Diameter
Description

Year: 1969
Reference No: 6241
Case No: 1'947'408
Model Name: Cosmograph Daytona "Champagne Paul Newman"
Material: 18k yellow gold
Calibre: Manual, cal. 722-1, 17 jewels
Bracelet/Strap: 18k yellow gold Rolex Jubilee bracelet, max length 200mm
Clasp/Buckle: 18k yellow gold deployant clasp dated 2.70

The idiosyncrasy of a vintage yellow gold “sports” chronograph is what makes a gold Daytona, especially with the “Paul Newman” dial so rare, coveted and exciting. In fact the reference 6241 is amongst the rarest models. It was in production for only 3 short years from 1966 to 1969, scholars estimate that roughly 2000 pieces were produced in stainless steel, approximately 400 in 14k yellow gold and around 300 in 18k yellow gold like the present example making it the rarest of the rare. This reference differed from other Daytona models with a new case design that introduced a small protrusion under the crown, which allowed easier winding of the Valjoux caliber 722. It also featured a new bezel composed of a metal support fitted with a black acrylic insert featuring a tachymeter scale printed in white. The “T SWISS T” designation at the lower edge of the dial by 6 o’clock indicates the use of tritium for the hands and luminous hour markers. It is also from this reference on that the word ‘Daytona’ would be officially printed on the dial. Exquisite, exemplary and extraordinary, it would not be an overstatement to call the present timepiece a fine artwork for the wrist, the 18k yellow gold case is a perfect frame for the gorgeous cream/champagne colored grené dial, magnified by the black acrylic bezel. The “Paul Newman” dial configuration is preserved in superb condition, fully retaining all of its luminous hour markers. The case is also very well preserved, retaining original proportions and full lugs. Furthermore, the untouched nature of the watch is confirmed by the fact that in its 50+ year history only 2 service marks are etched inside the caseback. A simple reasoning points out both the historical significance and the rarity of a gold Newman. The Daytona was intended as a professional timepiece for competitive drivers. Thus, a gold version did not make a lot of sense on the paper due to the lower robustness of the metal, not to mention the added weight and cost. A similar reasoning goes for the Paul Newman dial: while extremely eye-pleasing, it definitely is not the epitome of legibility, especially when compared to the standard Daytona dial design. Thus, to find a watch incorporating both traits not only is a fabled occurrence, but it furthermore represents one of the earliest embryonic conceptualisation of what is arguably the biggest market segment in modern watchmaking: luxury sport watches. In overall excellent condition, this gem has been hidden and unworn for quite some time as witnessed by the colorful oxidation found on the right side of the case and is an incredibly rare piece of refinement and sophistication with a dash of playfulness.

Signature
Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed