Rolex Daytona 6241

Rolex Reference 6241 ‘Paul Newman’ Daytona | A stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with bracelet, Circa 1969

Dial: white Caliber: cal. 722 mechanical, 17 jewels Case: stainless steel, screw down case back Case number: 1'991'851 Closure: stainless steel Jubilee Rolex bracelet with folding clasp Size: 37 mm diameter, bracelet circumference approximately 185 mm Signed: case, dial, and movement Box: no Papers: no Accessories: Rolex Service Estimation dated November 4th, 2024Only in production from 1965 to 1969, the Rolex Reference 6241 is one of the rarest and most desirable variants of the Daytona series, having been produced in very limited quantities of approximately 2,700 to 3,000 pieces. Like its sister model, the Reference 6239, the 6241 is fitted with an early non-Oyster case, pump-style pushers, and a Valjoux 722 caliber movement. Unlike the 6239, however, the 6241 features a black acrylic bezel insert, giving it a slightly larger and more contemporary appearance. Much like the exotic Paul Newman dial, this acrylic bezel enhances the watch’s presence on the wrist, lending it a more imposing aesthetic reminiscent of a modern timepiece. Of all the 6241s made, only a very limited number were fitted with an exotic dial, later known as the “Paul Newman,” named after the American actor, director, and race car driver who famously wore such examples throughout his life. Though the differences between standard and exotic dials come down to variations in typeface and subtle uses of color, the resulting effect is striking. These highly prized exotic dials were available in black with white subdials and white with black subdials. They featured a stepped outer track and sunken subsidiary dials, accented by Art Deco-inspired square indexes. When preserved as faithfully as the present example, the effect is nothing short of extraordinary and perfectly illustrates why Rolex enjoys its esteemed reputation today.