Lot Essay
The present watch is a highly attractive and well preserved example of the reference 6238, with nicely defined lugs, sharp edges to the bezel, crisp reference and serial numbers. The overall condition is further enhanced by the blue scales, giving it a very appealing aesthetic.
The condition, however, represents only half of the appeal of this timepiece: in fact, it features a rare transitional dial. While most 6238 mount, a dial featuring baton numerals (a configuration very close to what will be used for the Daytona 6239), the present watch features dagger numerals, which is a style much closer to previous models such as 6234.
Amongst collectors, reference 6238 is often referred to as the "Pre-Daytona" and enjoys today growing popularity within the community of Rolex aficionados. Launched in 1960, reference 6238 was the company's last traditional chronograph wristwatch with polished bezel.
versions of reference 6238 in regard to case material and dial layout are is described and illustrated in I Cronografi Rolex - La Leggenda, Pucci Papaleo Editore, pp. 278 - 291.
The condition, however, represents only half of the appeal of this timepiece: in fact, it features a rare transitional dial. While most 6238 mount, a dial featuring baton numerals (a configuration very close to what will be used for the Daytona 6239), the present watch features dagger numerals, which is a style much closer to previous models such as 6234.
Amongst collectors, reference 6238 is often referred to as the "Pre-Daytona" and enjoys today growing popularity within the community of Rolex aficionados. Launched in 1960, reference 6238 was the company's last traditional chronograph wristwatch with polished bezel.
versions of reference 6238 in regard to case material and dial layout are is described and illustrated in I Cronografi Rolex - La Leggenda, Pucci Papaleo Editore, pp. 278 - 291.