In the world of luxury watches, few timepieces hold as much historical significance and cultural cachet as the Rolex Daytona owned by iconic actor Paul Newman. On October 26, 2017, this legendary timepiece made headlines when it shattered records by selling for an astonishing 17.8 million fortune at a Phillips auction in New York. This sale not only set a new benchmark for the highest price ever paid for a wristwatch at auction but also solidified Paul Newman's Rolex Daytona as one of the most coveted and valuable timepieces in the world.
Paul Newman Rolex for Sale
The story of Paul Newman's Rolex Daytona begins in the early 1970s when the actor was gifted the watch by his wife, actress Joanne Woodward. The watch, a Reference 6239 Rolex Daytona with a cream-colored dial and exotic "Panda" sub-dials, quickly became Newman's go-to timepiece and was often seen on his wrist in countless photographs and films. Its association with the Hollywood legend and racing enthusiast further added to its allure, making it a sought-after collector's item even during Newman's lifetime.
In the decades that followed, the Paul Newman Rolex Daytona gained a cult following among watch aficionados and collectors, with its distinctive design and unique provenance setting it apart from other luxury timepieces. As Newman's fame and legacy continued to grow, so did the desirability of his iconic Rolex, leading to intense interest whenever one of these rare watches came up for sale.
Paul Newman Rolex Daytona
The Rolex Daytona, originally designed for professional racing drivers, has long been considered one of the most prestigious and functional timepieces in Rolex's lineup. Its chronograph function, tachymeter bezel, and durable construction make it a favorite among racing enthusiasts and watch connoisseurs alike. The addition of Paul Newman's personal connection to the watch only served to elevate its status to legendary proportions.
The specific model of Rolex Daytona owned by Paul Newman, the Reference 6239, featured a stainless steel case, a black acrylic bezel, and a distinctive dial layout with contrasting sub-dials that earned it the nickname "Panda." This combination of design elements, along with Newman's own endorsement and wear, propelled the watch to iconic status within the watch collecting community.
Paul Newman Rolex Dial
One of the key factors that contributed to the exceptional value of Paul Newman's Rolex Daytona was the unique dial configuration that set it apart from standard versions of the watch. The cream-colored dial with black sub-dials, often referred to as the "exotic" or "Paul Newman" dial, featured an Art Deco-inspired design that added a touch of retro elegance to the sporty timepiece.
The distinctive dial layout, with its bold use of color and contrasting sub-dials, became synonymous with the Paul Newman Rolex Daytona and is now one of the most recognizable and sought-after features among collectors. The rarity of these dials, combined with their association with the legendary actor, has made them highly coveted and valuable in the world of vintage Rolex watches.
Paul Newman Watches for Sale
While Paul Newman's personal Rolex Daytona was the most famous and valuable of his watch collection, the actor was known to have a passion for timepieces and owned several other notable watches throughout his life. From classic dress watches to rugged sports models, Newman's eclectic taste in watches reflected his varied interests and personal style.
In addition to his Rolex Daytona, Newman was also spotted wearing other Rolex models, as well as watches from brands like Patek Philippe, Cartier, and Omega. Each of these timepieces held a special place in his collection and added to the mystique surrounding his personal style and taste in watches.
Rolex Watch Auction
The auction of Paul Newman's Rolex Daytona at Phillips in New York was a highly anticipated event that drew the attention of watch collectors, enthusiasts, and celebrities from around the world. Bidding for the iconic timepiece started at a modest amount but quickly escalated as collectors vied for the chance to own a piece of horological history.
The final price of 17.8 million fortune, including buyer's premium, set a new record for the highest price ever paid for a wristwatch at auction, surpassing all expectations and cementing the Paul Newman Rolex Daytona as a true masterpiece of watchmaking and cultural significance. The intense bidding war and eventual sale of the watch captured the imagination of the watch collecting community and underscored the enduring appeal of vintage timepieces with a storied past.
Who Bought the Rolex Daytona
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