The world of horology witnessed a seismic event in October 2017 when Paul Newman's personal Rolex Daytona, nicknamed the "Paul Newman Daytona," fetched a staggering $17,752,500 at Phillips auction house in New York. This sale not only shattered the previous record for the most expensive wristwatch ever sold at auction but also cemented the legendary actor's Daytona as an icon, transcending its status as a mere timepiece to become a symbol of Hollywood glamour, sporting excellence, and the enduring allure of vintage horology. The auction result ignited a renewed interest in the Paul Newman Daytona, driving up prices across the board for similar models and further solidifying its place in watch collecting history.
This article will delve into the specifics of this record-breaking sale, explore the factors contributing to its astronomical price, and provide insights into the current market for Paul Newman Daytonas and other related Rolex Daytona models. We will also address common search terms like "used Paul Newman Rolex for sale," "Rolex 116528 Daytona price," "used Paul Newman Rolex watches," "Paul Newman Rolex price," "most expensive Rolex Daytona," "Rolex Daytona 6239 for sale," "Rolex Daytona 1969 price," and "Rolex Daytona 6239 price," offering a comprehensive overview of the market landscape.
The Record-Breaking Sale: Context and Significance
The sale of Paul Newman's Rolex Daytona was not just about a watch; it was about a story. The watch, a reference 6239 with its distinctive exotic dial, had been a personal possession of the actor for decades. It was a gift from his wife, Joanne Woodward, and had been worn by Newman throughout his life, adding a layer of personal history and provenance that is unparalleled in the watch collecting world. This personal connection, combined with the watch's inherent rarity and desirability, propelled the price to unprecedented heights.
The auction itself was a spectacle, drawing international attention from collectors, media, and enthusiasts alike. The intense bidding war reflected the fierce competition for such a highly sought-after piece. The final hammer price of $17,752,500 not only surpassed all expectations but also redefined the value of vintage watches, establishing a new benchmark for future auctions. The sale highlighted the intersection of celebrity, history, and horological excellence, solidifying the Paul Newman Daytona's position as the ultimate grail watch for many collectors.
Factors Contributing to the High Price:
Several factors contributed to the exceptional price achieved by Paul Newman's Daytona:
* Provenance: The undeniable provenance of the watch, directly linked to Paul Newman himself, was paramount. The watch's history, documented through photographs and accounts, added an irreplaceable layer of authenticity and desirability. This is a factor that significantly distinguishes it from other, even similar, Daytonas.
* Rarity: Reference 6239 Daytonas with exotic dials are inherently rare. The combination of the specific dial configuration, the case, and the overall condition of Newman's watch made it exceptionally rare, further driving up its value. Only a limited number of these watches were ever produced, and fewer still survive in such pristine condition.
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