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86

Rolex

Ref. 6241

Oyster Cosmograph "Paul Newman"

A very well-preserved and highly attractive stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with “Paul Newman” dial and bracelet

Estimate
CHF150,000 - 300,000
€162,000 - 324,000
$188,000 - 377,000
CHF254,000
Lot Details
Manufacturer
Rolex
Year
Circa 1967
Reference No
6241
Case No
1'767'482
Model Name
Oyster Cosmograph "Paul Newman"
Material
Stainless steel
Calibre
Manual, cal. 722-1, 17 jewels
Bracelet/Strap
Stainless steel Rolex Oyster bracelet, max length 170mm
Clasp/Buckle
Stainless steel Rolex deployant clasp with name engraved on buckle
Dimensions
37.5mm diameter
Signed
Case, dial, movement and bracelet signed
Accessories
Accompanied by Rolex travel pouch
Catalogue Essay
Reference 6241 was produced approximately from 1966 to 1969. Scholars estimate that no more than 3000 pieces were produced during the model’s manufacture period, and only a small part of them with “Paul Newman” dials.

Fitted with a black dial and white outer register with red track, the present "Paul Newman" reference 6241 is an impressive specimen preserved in excellent condition. Most examples today show signs of ageing, yet this one is free of blemishes, with the step between the outer track and main portion is distinct. The cherry-red “Daytona” designation is striking and pops out from the ebony background. The luminous dots are round, intact and display warm patina, and is incredibly well-preserved for its age. Such beautifully preserved dials hardly ever appear on the market.

Of particular interest is the backstory of the present piece. The consignor is a distinguished gentleman who worked for many years as a high ranking individual in the Kuwaiti government. Also an avid swimmer, he took part in the 1969 Capri-Napoli swimming marathon. The race marked the beginning of Kuwait's participation in the long distance marathon. One of the victors, he was gifted the present timepiece by Sheikh Abdullah Al-Jaber Al-Sabah in recognition of his efforts and contribution. The consignor barely wore the watch, saving it only for special occasions. As such, the Daytona is presented in excellent condition as it was unused for many years.

Other details on this timepiece include the Mk 1 bezel, which is correct for reference 6241 and gives the watch a lot of presence on the wrist. The case features bold proportions and a crisp finish on the caseback, making the present watch an incredibly collectible trophy.

Rolex

Swiss | 1905
Founded in 1905 England by Hans Wilsdorf and Alfred Davis as Wilsdorf & Davis, it soon became known as the Rolex Watch Company in 1915, moving its headquarters to Geneva in 1919. Like no other company, the success of the wristwatch can be attributed to many of Rolex's innovations that made them one of the most respected and well-known of all luxury brands. These innovations include their famous "Oyster" case — the world's first water resistant and dustproof watch case, invented in 1926 — and their "Perpetual" — the first reliable self-winding movement for wristwatches launched in 1933. They would form the foundation for Rolex's Datejust and Day-Date, respectively introduced in 1945 and 1956, but also importantly for their sports watches, such as the Explorer, Submariner and GMT-Master launched in the mid-1950s.One of its most famous models is the Cosmograph Daytona. Launched in 1963, these chronographs are without any doubt amongst the most iconic and coveted of all collectible wristwatches. Other key collectible models include their most complicated vintage watches, including references 8171 and 6062 with triple calendar and moon phase, "Jean Claude Killy" triple date chronograph models and the Submariner, including early "big-crown" models and military-issued variants.
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