Rolex Daytona 'Paul Newman' (vintage)

About this reference

The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona reference 6239 was produced from approximately 1963 to 1969 and represents the first iteration of the Daytona line. Collectors prioritize this reference for its steel tachymeter bezel and the manual-wind Valjoux 722 movement. The "Paul Newman" designation refers specifically to the exotic dial, characterized by an outer seconds track in a contrasting color and sub-dials featuring art deco numerals with square-tipped markers. Unlike later references, the 6239 utilizes pump pushers rather than screw-down versions, resulting in a lower water resistance rating. On the current secondary market, stainless steel 6239 models with authentic exotic dials typically command prices between $200,000 and $500,000 depending on condition and provenance. A notable historical benchmark occurred in 2017 when Paul Newman’s personal 6239 sold at auction for $17.75 million, establishing the reference as a primary driver of the vintage chronograph market.