SIGNED ROLEX, COSMOGRAPH DAYTONA, PAUL NEWMAN MODEL, REF. 6239, CASE NO. 1'781'933, CIRCA 1967

The present watch is a fine example of the much sought-after Paul Newman model with reference 6239. The charming and original dial of this watch delights as much as its honest overall condition with the correct and intact chronograph buttons and the sharp milling on the back. The Paul Newman dial is sometimes also referred to as a "tropical dial" or "exotic dial". While such dials are not common and hence highly desirable, it is mostly dials with two contrasting colours that appear at auction. Watches with dials of three colours, such as the present, displaying black, white and red, are seen less often. The red fifths of a seconds divisions on the white chapter ring nicely frame the watch face, catching the light and allowing enhanced legibility.

Different versions of reference 6239 are described and illustrated in I Cronografi Rolex - La Leggenda, Pucci Papaleo Editore, pp. 296-303, and in 100 Superlative Rolex Watches by John Goldberger, pp. 238 and 242-245.

For detailed descriptions and illustrations of Paul Newman watches see Rolex Daytona - A Legend is Born by Carlo Pergola, Stefano Mazzariol, Giovanni Dosso, pp. 170-202. Different versions of reference 6239 in regard to case material and dial layout are further described and illustrated in 100 Superlative Rolex Watches by John Goldberger, as well as in I Cronografi Rolex - La Leggenda, Pucci Papaleo Editore, pp. 296-303.