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Lot Essay
With Rolex fitted green presentation box.
1967 , In its 9 years lifecycle, ref. 6239's total production is estimated at 14000 pieces: 300 in gold, whilst the rest are produced in stainless steel.
According to the rules, a chronograph ought to be the epitome of the technical watch. However, during the Sixties appearances become an important factor. Rolex, following public demand, produces a very small number of the 6239 entirely in gold for its most affluent customers. This transforms the timepiece from a mere measuring tool into an iconic status symbol. Nevertheless, the watch stays true to its legacy, with only a few subtle changes in its dial design, better suited to its precious case. For example, the gold hour markers, scales, and designations; the champagne background and black graphics in the opposite version. In addition, the Paul Newman dials mounted on gold cases undergo minor modifications: the dial of this watch with its gold case is less sporty compared to the typically red elements of the steel versions.
Whilst the stainless steel version of the celebrated "Paul Newman" is considered the world's most popular collector's wristwatch, the gold version is greatly appreciated by Rolex aficionados. Well-preserved examples like the present reference 6239 enjoy a monumental status within the collector's world. These Daytonas represent a perfect 1960s synergy between the rough, dangerous and masculine sporting world and the elegance of the elite.
Different versions of reference 6239 are described and illustrated in I Cronografi Rolex - La Leggenda, Pucci Papaleo Editore, pp. 296 - 303.
1967 , In its 9 years lifecycle, ref. 6239's total production is estimated at 14000 pieces: 300 in gold, whilst the rest are produced in stainless steel.
According to the rules, a chronograph ought to be the epitome of the technical watch. However, during the Sixties appearances become an important factor. Rolex, following public demand, produces a very small number of the 6239 entirely in gold for its most affluent customers. This transforms the timepiece from a mere measuring tool into an iconic status symbol. Nevertheless, the watch stays true to its legacy, with only a few subtle changes in its dial design, better suited to its precious case. For example, the gold hour markers, scales, and designations; the champagne background and black graphics in the opposite version. In addition, the Paul Newman dials mounted on gold cases undergo minor modifications: the dial of this watch with its gold case is less sporty compared to the typically red elements of the steel versions.
Whilst the stainless steel version of the celebrated "Paul Newman" is considered the world's most popular collector's wristwatch, the gold version is greatly appreciated by Rolex aficionados. Well-preserved examples like the present reference 6239 enjoy a monumental status within the collector's world. These Daytonas represent a perfect 1960s synergy between the rough, dangerous and masculine sporting world and the elegance of the elite.
Different versions of reference 6239 are described and illustrated in I Cronografi Rolex - La Leggenda, Pucci Papaleo Editore, pp. 296 - 303.