What is the Rolex “Paul Newman” Daytona?

At Trotters Jewellers, we love nothing more than diving into the histories of some of the world’s most coveted watches. In this series, we’re going to explore some of the most sought after Rolex’s starting with the ultimate celebration of design and an unmistakeable ‘cool factor’. You guessed it, we’re going on a deep dive into the Rolex “Paul Newman” Daytona. 

The Rolex “Paul Newman” Daytona is a true icon and this watch, celebrated for its distinctive design, fascinating history, and enduring appeal, is sought after by collectors worldwide. 

The Paul Newman Daytona represents the epitome of watchmaking excellence and Hollywood glamour, but what exactly makes it one of the rarest Rolex watches in the world? 

The Rarity of the Paul Newman Daytona

The rarity of the Paul Newman Daytona is linked to its early history. Launched in the 1960s, the Daytona was meant for motorsport enthusiasts, complete with features to measure speed. However, the specific “Paul Newman” version had unique design elements that didn’t attract immediate popularity.

This model featured a dial with unusual design choices, including Art Deco-style numerals and square markers. At the time, these elements were seen as unconventional which led to slower sales.

The transformation began when actor and racing driver Paul Newman began wearing the watch. His association, especially highlighted by a personalised inscription saying  “Drive Carefully, Me” from his wife Joanne, brought attention to the model.

Despite gaining fame, these watches were produced only briefly and in limited numbers. It’s this scarcity that has made them highly desirable among collectors.

A Deep Dive into the Design

The Paul Newman Daytona’s design is where the magic truly lies. Unlike other watch models, which may rely on subtlety, this Rolex embraces boldness, making it instantly recognisable.

The Dial  

The dial of the Paul Newman Daytona is its standout feature. Often referred to as an “exotic dial,” it includes several unique elements:

Contrasting Colour Scheme: Typically, the outer track contrasts with the main dial colour, often available in combinations such as black and white, which creates a visually striking appearance.

Art Deco Numerals: The font used for the numerals on the sub-dials departs from the standard Rolex style, featuring an Art Deco influence that lends an elegance reminiscent of early 20th-century design.

Square Markers: The sub-dials utilize square markers, which, combined with the distinctive font, create a harmonious yet bold aesthetic.

The Case

Housed in a robust stainless steel case, the Daytona was crafted to endure the rigours of motorsport. Measuring a classic 37.5mm, its size was considered large for its time, ensuring readability and presence on the wrist.

The Movement

Beneath its exterior, the Paul Newman Daytona is powered by the reliable Valjoux 72 hand-wound chronograph movement. While not manufactured by Rolex, the movement was meticulously modified and finished by Rolex to meet their stringent standards and ensure exceptional performance.

The ‘Paul Newman’ Factor

The association with Paul Newman is not just a brilliant marketing move; it’s a genuine connection that has cemented this watch’s legendary status. Newman, an avid racing enthusiast, genuinely wore the watch during his races, contributing authenticity to its heritage. The tale of how his own personal Daytona, complete with a bespoke inscription, fetched a staggering $17.8 million at auction in 2017 only adds to its appeal.

Newman’s effortless style and charisma brought a cool factor to the watch that marketing alone could never achieve, transforming it into a symbol of sophistication and adventure.

Why is It So Coveted?

Several factors help to establish the Paul Newman Daytona’s place among the most coveted watches in the world:

Scarcity: Limited early production runs mean few of these watches exist today, particularly in mint condition.

Design: Its unique Art Deco-inspired look continues to stand out, attracting collectors who appreciate its distinctive style.

Cultural Impact: The connection to Paul Newman adds an undeniable element of cool, infusing the timepiece with not just historical, but cultural significance.

Investment Potential: Given their rarity and the iconic status, these watches have shown an incredible appreciation in value, appealing to investors and collectors alike.

How much does a Paul Newman Daytona cost?

As of mid-2022, prices for a Paul Newman Daytona began at approximately 250,000 USD. This entry-level price typically applies to the ref. 6239, featuring a steel bezel and black dial. For those interested in the white dial version, expect to spend around 350,000 USD on the same reference. This particular edition is famous for being worn by Paul Newman himself, with his personal watch setting a record as the most expensive Rolex ever when it was auctioned for 17.8 million USD in October 2017.

The ref. 6262, which comes with an acrylic bezel and white dial, often exceeds half a million dollars. Meanwhile, the 18-karat gold ref. 6264 is extremely rare and highly sought after. Occasionally, this coveted model appears on the market, with a notable listing in mid-2022 reaching 950,000 USD, making it one of the priciest Daytonas available.

Trotters Jewellers – Our Take on an Icon

“It’s fair to say that the Paul Newman Daytona is more than just a watch; it’s a brilliant blend of history, style, and craftsmanship. Its rarity makes it a standout piece for any collection, while its unique design and story add depth and meaning. Whether you’re drawn to it for its aesthetic, investment potential, or the unmistakably cool Newman connection, this watch remains a timeless representation of elegance and adventure!”

While the Rolex “Paul Newman” Daytona might remain the crown jewel on many watch enthusiasts’ wishlists, there’s a world of iconic Rolex models waiting to be discovered. At Trotters Jewellers, our pre-owned Rolex collection offers a selection of timeless classics like the Submariner, Datejust, and GMT-Master.

These models carry the same prestigious Rolex craftsmanship and heritage, providing excellent alternatives for collectors and fans of luxury timepieces. For personalised guidance or more information, feel free to get in touch with our expert team. We’re here to assist you in finding the right pre-owned Rolex for you.