Rolex Daytona 6239

Daytona 'Paul Newman', Reference 6239 | A yellow gold chronograph wristwatch | Circa 1967

Dial: black, champagne registers Calibre: cal. 722-1 manual winding, 17 jewels Case: 18k yellow gold, screw-down case back Case number: 1’757’928 Closure: gold-plated Rolex buckle Size: 37 mm diameter Signed: case, dial and movement Box: no Papers: no Accessories: none Please note the leather strap derived from endangered species is for display purposes only and is not sold with the watch. The watch will be shipped with a Sotheby’s branded calf leather strap.Reference 6239 marks the very first Daytona model produced by Rolex, launched in 1963 and discontinued only a few years later. Production is estimated at around 14,000 pieces, with roughly 300 made in yellow gold. Within this already limited group, Paul Newman–dial examples are extraordinarily rare, our research suggests that only about ten gold 6239 Paul Newman watches have ever resurfaced on the market. The present example, bearing a 1'757'9xx serial, belongs to one of the earliest known batches and is made even more compelling by its provenance, it comes directly from the family of the original owner, having been left forgotten in a drawer for over 45 years. Created for the world of endurance racing and associated with the 24‑hour Daytona event, the 6239 marked Rolex’s evolution from pure tool chronograph to aspirational symbol. The few gold examples produced feature refined dial details, champagne tones, gilt markers, and elegant graphics, yielding a distinctive Art Deco aesthetic when paired with the Paul Newman layout. This example is preserved in an exceptional condition. While the stainless‑steel Paul Newman 6239 is one of the most recognised collector’s watches globally, well‑preserved gold versions with strong provenance, such as the present watch, are revered among connoisseurs.