History of the Paul Newman Rolex Daytona

Rolex Paul Newman Daytona_Kate Gabrielle and Mliu92

The Paul Newman Rolex Daytona is a watch that has become synonymous with vintage grail watch collecting, with a touch of Hollywood glamour. While not part of the official Rolex literature, this nickname was coined by watch collectors after iconic actor and philanthropist Paul Newman.

With a rich history, and an interesting design that sets it apart from other Rolex Daytona models, the “Paul Newman” is one of the best-known and sought-after families of watches. In 2017, one of Paul Newman’s very own Daytona watches fetched a record-breaking price of $17.8 million at auction, becoming the most expensive watch ever sold at auction, and cementing the Paul Newman Daytona’s status as a horological legend.

In this article, we will explore the story behind Paul Newman’s association with the Rolex Daytona, delve into the distinguishing features that make a Rolex Daytona a “Paul Newman,” and examine the enduring popularity of these watches in the auction market. <>

 

The Story of Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona

The Rolex Daytona became an integral part of Paul Newman’s personal and professional life. Known for his love of auto racing, Newman often wore a Rolex Daytona from his collection during his participation in various races, including the prestigious Rolex 24 at Daytona.

Paul Newman’s ref 6239 Rolex Daytona with an exotic dial.
Photo by Phillips Auction on Instagram

Paul Newman’s “Paul Newman” is a reference 6239 Rolex Daytona with an exotic dial. It was just one of several Daytonas in his collection, but it was particularly sought-after for a few reasons. First is that it was easily distinguishable as Paul wore it on a leather fat strap. Another is perhaps its sentimental significance – it was gifted by Paul’s wife, Joanne Woodward, and engraved at the the back with the words “Drive Carefully Me”.

Another major part of its appeal is that it has an “exotic” dial design, a whimsical, Art Deco style that was only produced in 3,000 units.

The unique dial design of Newman’s Daytona, featuring contrasting sub-dials and an exotic artful arrangement of square markers, caught the attention of watch enthusiasts and collectors. The dial’s aesthetic appeal and the association with the famous actor propelled the popularity of this particular Rolex model, albeit belatedly. Many of these models sat on the shelf during their production era, and they were not popular among collectors until the 1980s, when Italian watch connoisseurs paid special attention to its dial, and discovered a photo of Paul wearing the watch.

Nell Newman wearing her father Paul Newman’s ref 6239 Rolex Daytona with an exotic dial.
Photo by Phillips Watches on Instagram

Paul has been wearing his Daytona since the late 1960s. In 1969, Newman starred in the film “Winning,” a story centered around the world of motorsports. The watch became an iconic part of his persona and added an extra layer of allure to the already sought-after timepiece.

Newman’s own personal Daytona, with its distinctive dial, eventually became known as the “Paul Newman” Daytona. However, it’s important to note that not all Rolex Daytona watches with similar dial designs can be considered genuine Paul Newman Daytonas. The term is reserved for the specific references and configurations that closely resemble Newman’s own watch.

The record-breaking auction of Paul Newman’s ref 6239 Daytona.
Video by Phillips Watches on Instagram

The association between Paul Newman and the Daytona continued beyond his lifetime. After his passing in 2008, the legacy of his Daytona watches lived on. In 2017, the ref 6239 watch was auctioned for a record-breaking $17.8 million. This extraordinary sale further solidified the Paul Newman Daytona’s status as one of the most coveted and valuable timepieces in the world.

Today, Paul Newman’s Daytona watches continue to capture the imagination of collectors and enthusiasts. The combination of their historical significance, association with a legendary figure, and unique dial design has made them highly sought after in the watch market. The story of Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona is a testament to the enduring appeal and timeless elegance of the Daytona, as well as the draw of Hollywood memorabilia.


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What Makes a Rolex Daytona a “Paul Newman”?

The distinguishing features of a Paul Newman Rolex Daytona are what set it apart from other Rolex Daytona models.

The most prominent feature is the exotic dial design, which showcases an artful arrangement of square markers in contrasting colors. The sub-dials, often referred to as “registers,” have a distinct design as well, with unique shapes and numerals.

Another notable feature of the Paul Newman Daytona is the font used for the numerals on the dial. The font is different from the standard Daytona models, featuring an elegant, slightly elongated style. This font adds to the overall vintage charm and character of the watch.

Additionally, the hour and minute hands of the Paul Newman Daytona are often square tipped, another detail that distinguishes it from other Daytona references. These hands complement the design of the dial and contribute to the watch’s iconic aesthetic.

The unique combination of these features make a Rolex Daytona a true “Paul Newman” Daytona. These features have become highly coveted by collectors, and the association with the iconic actor further adds to their desirability and value in the watch market.


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Key Features of Each Paul Newman Rolex Daytona Reference

The Paul Newman Rolex Daytona collection encompasses several references, each with its own distinct features that contribute to their allure and desirability among collectors. In total, there are 6 Rolex Daytona references with Paul Newman dials: 6239, 6241, 6262, 6263, 6264 and 6265.

Let’s explore the key characteristics of each reference:

Ref 6239

The Rolex Daytona Ref 6239 holds a special place in the history of the Paul Newman Daytona watches. It is the model that started it all and was worn by Paul Newman himself until his passing. It happens to be the most common of the “Paul Newman Daytona” models, it is still highly regarded and sought after by collectors despite the lower prices.

The Ref 6239 features a stainless-steel bezel with a 300 units-per-hour scale, showcasing its sporty and functional design. It is equipped with pump pushers for the chronograph function, allowing for precise timing during racing activities. The movement powering this watch is the Valjoux 722, a 17-jewel movement that beats at a frequency of 18,000 beats per hour.

You can find it in both white and black dials, and the Ref 6239 features a distinctive three-color dial arrangement of black, white, and red. The word “Daytona” is prominently displayed above the sub dial at the 6 o’clock position, adding a touch of sporty elegance. Notably, the Ref 6239 was the first Daytona model to no longer have the scale on the dial but moved to the bezel, enhancing legibility and functionality.

Production of the Rolex Daytona Ref 6239 commenced in mid-1963, marking the beginning of the iconic Daytona line. Its introduction set the stage for the subsequent references and solidified the Daytona’s position as a premier chronograph watch associated with motorsports and the legendary actor, Paul Newman.

Ref 6241

The Rolex Daytona Ref 6241 bears a strong resemblance to its predecessor, the Ref 6239, in many aspects. It retains the Valjoux 722 movement and the distinctive three-color dial. However, the Ref 6241 stands out with a unique feature — it was available with a choice between pump pushers or screw-down chronograph buttons, providing variations in functionality and design.

Due to its relative rarity compared to the Ref 6239, collectors tend to gravitate towards the Ref 6241, making it highly sought after and potentially commanding a higher price than the Ref 6240 and Ref 6239. The scarcity and unique characteristics of the Ref 6241 contribute to its appeal among watch enthusiasts, adding to its allure and collectability.

Ref 6262

Rolex made minimal aesthetic changes to the Daytona model with the Ref 6262. However, significant mechanical improvements were implemented, including the introduction of a new movement, the Valjoux 727. The noticeable enhancement in this movement was the increase in beats-per-hour from 18,000 to 21,600, resulting in improved precision and timekeeping.

The Ref 6262 retained the classic metal bezel, offering a timeless and sporty appearance. It featured a tri-color dial as its standard option, though a two-color dial variant was also available, providing collectors with choices. The presence of pump pushers added to the vintage charm and functionality of the watch.

Manufactured for a brief period from 1970 to 1971, the Rolex Daytona Ref 6262 is an exceptionally rare reference. Its limited production further contributes to its desirability among collectors and enthusiasts, who value its scarcity and distinctive features.

Ref 6263

The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona Reference 6263 represents the ultimate collector’s watch with its Panda dial design. The technical specifications of the Ref 6262 continue with the 6263, housing the Valjoux 727 movement. However, it reintroduces the screw-down pushers and features a black acrylic bezel, adding a touch of vintage allure.

What sets the Ref 6263 apart is its exceptional rarity in a 14k gold version, which was produced for a very limited time. This variant further amplifies the exclusivity and prestige associated with this model. Combine this with the distinctive black-and-white color combination and you have a winning model when it comes to appeal.

The Rolex Daytona Ref 6263 with a Panda Paul Newman dial has become highly sought-after, commanding ultra-high prices in recent auctions.

Ref 6264

The Rolex Cosmograph Oyster Reference 6264 serves as the sibling to the Ref 6262, sharing many similarities in its design and technical specifications. It showcases the superior Valjoux caliber 727 movement, renowned for its higher beat rate, ensuring exceptional precision and performance.

The key distinction between the Ref 6263 and the Ref 6264 lies in the bezel and design. The Ref 6264 features a black acrylic bezel, carefully crafted to emulate the appearance of the earlier Bakelite bezels. This subtle change provides a distinctive visual element.

Manufactured only in 1970 and 1971, the Rolex Daytona Ref 6264 is an exceedingly rare timepiece.

Ref 6265

In the mid-1970s, Rolex introduced the final iterations of the non-automatic Rolex Daytona series, namely the Ref 6263 and Ref 6265. The Ref 6265 marked the return of water-proof functionality with its screw-down pushers, while also featuring a thicker case to enhance durability.

You’ll also find the graduated stainless steel bezel again, adding a touch of sophistication to the design. Unlike its predecessor, it adopted a traditional “Panda” style dial in classic black and white, omitting the three-color dial configuration. Notably, the dial no longer displayed the word “Daytona” above the 6 o’clock position.

Both the Ref 6263 and Ref 6265 remained on the new watch market until 1987. At that point, the Daytona collection received updates and transitioned to an automatic movement, marking a new chapter in its evolution.


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Just How Popular is the Paul Newman Rolex Daytona?

Previous auction performance is an important aspect to consider when discussing the popularity of the Rolex Paul Newman Daytona. The exceptional prices achieved by these watches at auctions serve as a testament to their desirability and collectability.

The record-breaking sale of Paul Newman’s own Rolex Daytona in 2017 for $17.8 million at Phillips auction house made headlines and solidified the Paul Newman Daytona’s status as a horological icon. This extraordinary price was unprecedented for a wristwatch, let alone a Rolex. The sale captured the attention of the watch industry and the public, further fueling the fascination surrounding these timepieces.

Prior to the historic 2017 auction, the prices of Paul Newman Daytonas had been steadily climbing, reflecting their growing popularity among collectors. Notable sales had already set impressive benchmarks. For example, in 2013, a Ref 6239 Paul Newman Daytona sold for approximately $1.1 million, demonstrating the early upward trajectory of these watches in the auction market.

In 2016, another Rolex Daytona Paul Newman Oyster Sotto ref 6239 broke records at a Phillip’s auction and sold for $1.95 million.

In 2020, another one of Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona watches was sold at auction.
The ref 6263 “Big Red” gifted by Newman to his daughter Clea sold for $5.48 million.
Photo from Phillips Auctions on Instagram

Since then, numerous Paul Newman Daytonas have achieved remarkable prices at various auction houses worldwide. Phillips, Christie’s, Sotheby’s, and other renowned auctioneers have all featured these iconic timepieces in their sales, drawing significant attention and competitive bidding.

The rarity and condition of the Paul Newman Daytona being offered greatly impact the final auction price. Watches in exceptional condition, accompanied by original documentation and provenance, tend to command higher values. The presence of Paul Newman’s name or association with significant historical events, such as famous races or personal ownership, further enhances a watch’s appeal and auction performance.

It is worth noting that while the record-breaking prices garnered by Paul Newman Daytonas often dominate headlines, not all examples reach such extraordinary levels. The auction market for these watches also encompasses a range of prices, depending on factors such as reference, condition, and provenance. However, even the more common references of the Paul Newman Daytona typically achieve prices well above their original retail value.

The consistent demand and substantial prices achieved by the Paul Newman Daytona at auction reflect its enduring popularity and status as a highly collectible timepiece. The combination of rarity, iconic design, and association with a legendary figure like Paul Newman continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts, making the Paul Newman Daytona one of the most sought-after watches in the world.


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The Paul Newman Rolex Daytona: Final Thoughts

The Paul Newman Rolex Daytona has cemented its place in horological history as a legendary and highly sought-after timepiece. Its popularity is fueled by a combination of factors, including its connection to the iconic actor Paul Newman, its unique design elements such as the exotic dial, and its limited production numbers.

Each reference of the Paul Newman Daytona possesses its own distinct charm and allure. The rarity and historical significance of these watches make them prized possessions for watch aficionados, representing a blend of craftsmanship, heritage, and timeless appeal.

For those seeking to add a Paul Newman Daytona to their collection, or any vintage luxury watch for that matter, reputable sources like SwissWatchExpo provide a trusted platform to explore and acquire these highly coveted timepieces. With their expertise in luxury watches and commitment to authenticity, SwissWatchExpo offers collectors the opportunity to own a piece of horological history.

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Main Image credits: “Paul Newman” by kate gabrielle licensed by CC BY 2.0 via Flickr, placed alongside “
Daytona exotic (Paul Newman) dial schematic” by Mliu92 licensed by CC BY-SA 4.0 via Wikimedia Commons, increased exposure from original.
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