Rolex “Paul Newman” Sells for $231,750 at Antiquorum’s April Auction

Antiquorum recently hosted its Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces auction in New York City, and one of the most outstanding lots was a Rolex Oyster Cosmograph Daytona “Paul Newman”, which sold for $231,750.

Although the Cosmograph Daytona was originally created in 1963 for professional endurance racing drivers, this chronograph got its famous nickname from Paul Newman, who, legend has it, wore his Daytona every day. However, it remains a serious instrument: the engraved bezel functions as a tach­ymeter, with a scale that can be used to calculate average speed over a given distance based on elapsed time.

Meanwhile, time intervals can be measured to within one ­eighth of a second with the centre chronograph seconds hand, while the two counters on the dial at 9 o’clock and 3 o’clock display elapsed time in hours and minutes, respectively. Drivers can therefore accurately map out their race times and determine how they must drive to win the race. At its heart is a mechanical movement entirely developed and manufactured by Rolex.

The piece which went under the gavel at Antiquorum, Ref. 6263 / 6269, was manufactured in 1970. It is housed in a 37mm stainless steel case with a white dial and an Oyster bracelet. It was sold with the original fitted box, instruction manual, and a booklet.

Photo courtesy Antiquorum.