ROLEX Daytona
early « Paul Newman »
Ref. 6239
Unbelievably preserved timepiece.
Two years after the introduction of « DAYTONA » on its chronograph’ dials ROLEX is searching some new avenues. During this period, the 6239 has already known 5 different dial variants (underline, 2 lines, small Daytona, large Daytona, cherry logo). ROLEX even used the 6239 base to build the prototype 6240 trying to make it waterproof with screw-down pushers. The supplier Singer (dial maker) proposed ROLEX to use their different subdials graphics already in use for other brands. ROLEX accepted but with a more elaborated dial generating a depth perception: the exotic dial was born. The same one Joanne Woodward bought for Paul Newman in a white version. This is the first, the authentic and original «Paul Newman» version. For cool kids only. ROLEX fitted randomly exotic dials on its Daytona until ~1972 (ends around serial 3,06x,xxx).
Serial: 1,600,xxx (1967). The first Newman ever seen had a 1,59x,xxx serial so this one is a seriously early one!
Dial: perfect black with red minute track and immaculate subdials. 1st generation of Paul Newman dial with large T SWISS T. All tritium lume plots are INTACT and they ALL still glow & fade perfectly. Another great feature of this early MK1 Paul Newman is the various shape of hands for subdials. They are thinner and the one at 9 o’clock for seconds is even skinnier with a flat top.
Case: impressive sharpness with fat lugs.
Pushers: pump
Bracelet: oyster bracelet reference 7205 with rare 71 end links and a later clasp from 69
Box & papers: Rolex presentation box.
