Referred to amongst collectors as the “Pre-Daytona”, reference 6238 was the last Rolex chronograph model to feature a tachymeter scale on the dial and a plain bezel. The direct predecessor of the famous Cosmograph Daytona reference 6239, the 6238 already had many of the features that would enable the Daytona to earn the success we know today, including a distinguished, sporty aesthetic with a more modern design than earlier Rolex chronograph watches. The present lot is fitted with a stunning matte black dial with sunken registers. Together with its original white painted hands, they contrast beautifully with the stainless steel case. Most reference 6238s were fitted with silver dials, making the present example a particularly rare find. The “-T SWISS T-” found just under the hour sub-dial at 6 o’clock indicates that Tritium was used as the luminous material for the hands and hour markers. The word ‘Chronograph’ is featured prominently at 12 o’clock, before being replaced with the now-iconic ‘Cosmograph’ designation of the reference 6239. The present watch remains in superb condition, and with its black dial and original Rolex guarantee it is without a doubt a great find that will complete the collection of a demanding watch collector.