Last night, the world of horology witnessed history. Paul Newman’s personal Rolex Daytona, a watch steeped in legend and synonymous with the actor’s iconic image, sold for a staggering $17.75 million. This breathtaking price tag not only shattered previous records, making it the most expensive wristwatch ever sold at auction, but also cemented the enduring allure and unparalleled value of this specific model, the Rolex Daytona "Paul Newman." The sale marks a pivotal moment, not just for the auction house involved, but for the entire collector's market, further propelling the Rolex Daytona, and particularly the Paul Newman variant, into the stratosphere of highly sought-after collectibles.
The news of the watch's consignment to Phillips in New York had already sent ripples through the collector community. Anticipation was palpable, fueled by the watch's provenance – directly from the wrist of the legendary actor himself – and its exceptional condition. The final sale price, a figure previously unimaginable for a wristwatch, underscores the exceptional confluence of factors that made this particular timepiece so extraordinarily valuable. It wasn’t just a watch; it was a piece of Hollywood history, a tangible link to one of cinema's most beloved figures.
Rolex Daytona: Most Expensive
The $17.75 million sale price decisively establishes this Paul Newman Daytona as the most expensive wristwatch ever sold. This surpasses previous record-holders by a considerable margin, solidifying the Rolex Daytona’s position at the apex of the collector's market. While other rare and historically significant watches have commanded high prices, none have reached this level. This sale signifies a new benchmark, a testament to the enduring desirability of this specific model and the power of its association with Paul Newman. The price reflects not only the watch's technical specifications and rarity but also its cultural significance and the intense demand from collectors worldwide.
Rolex Daytona Paul Newman Vintage: A Collector's Holy Grail
The watch sold is a prime example of a vintage Rolex Daytona Paul Newman. The term "Paul Newman" itself has become synonymous with a specific configuration of the Rolex Daytona, distinguished by its unique dial features. These features, including the exotic sub-dials, often referred to as "panda" or "reverse panda" depending on the color scheme, the unusual font style of the numerals, and the distinctive tachymeter bezel, set it apart from other Daytona models. This particular 1963 Rolex Daytona reference 6239 exemplifies the most coveted characteristics of the Paul Newman Daytona. The condition of the watch, its documented history, and its direct connection to Paul Newman himself contributed significantly to its record-breaking price.
1963 Rolex Daytona Reference 6239: A Piece of History
The watch's reference number, 6239, further contributes to its immense value. Produced from 1963 to 1969, the reference 6239 is a highly sought-after model among collectors. Its relatively short production run, combined with its iconic design and association with Paul Newman, has made it exceptionally rare and desirable. The specific example sold last night represents a pinnacle of this already rare and highly collectible reference. Its age, condition, and provenance combine to create a perfect storm of desirability for serious collectors.
current url:https://nkxtwd.cx347.com/global/paul-newmans-rolex-dayton-15766