The name "Paul Newman" conjures images of cool charisma, rebellious charm, and undeniable screen presence. But for watch collectors, the name evokes something even more potent: a legendary Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, a timepiece that transcends its function as a mere instrument for measuring time. This particular Rolex, a reference 6239, once belonging to the iconic actor, has achieved almost mythical status, its legacy woven into the very fabric of horological history. Its sale in 2017 cemented its place as one of the most expensive watches ever sold, catapulting the already highly sought-after Daytona into the stratosphere of collectible desirability. This article delves into the story of this extraordinary timepiece, exploring its significance, its impact on the market, and its enduring allure.
The Rolex Daytona: A Brief History Before the "Paul Newman"
Before we delve into the specifics of the Paul Newman Daytona, it's crucial to understand the context of the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona itself. Introduced in 1963, the Daytona was initially conceived as a tool watch for professional racing drivers. Its tachymeter bezel, designed to calculate speed over a measured distance, made it perfectly suited to the demands of the track. However, early models, like the reference 6239, didn't immediately capture the public's imagination in the same way later iterations would. The design, while functional and robust, lacked the flamboyant aesthetic that would later define its popularity.
The 1963 Rolex Daytona Reference 6239: A Foundation of Legend
The specific Rolex Daytona owned by Paul Newman was a 1963 reference 6239. This particular reference is significant because it represents the early evolution of the Daytona. These early models are characterized by their Valjoux 72 calibre movement, a reliable workhorse known for its accuracy and robustness. The 6239 also featured a relatively simple dial design compared to later, more ornate versions. It's this simplicity, coupled with its association with Paul Newman, that contributes significantly to its value. The dial of the Newman Daytona, with its distinctive sub-dials, is a key feature that sets it apart. While the exact specifications of Newman's personal 6239 remain etched in the annals of watch history, it is the overall aesthetics and provenance that define its unparalleled status.
The "Paul Newman" Dial: A Design Icon
While the reference number is important, it's the dial of Paul Newman's Daytona that truly distinguishes it. The "Paul Newman" Daytona dial features a unique configuration: the sub-registers (smaller dials indicating seconds, minutes, and hours) are arranged in a distinctive way, often described as "exotic." These dials, with their contrasting colors and fonts, stand apart from the more standard Daytona dials of the era. This "exotic" dial configuration, although not officially designated as such by Rolex at the time, is now the defining characteristic of the "Paul Newman" Daytonas. The combination of the unique dial layout with the overall design of the reference 6239 is what makes it so collectible.
current url：https://bmxqix.e518c.com/guide/rolex-daytona-once-owned-by-paul-newman-80699