Few watches have held such a powerful grip on the collective consciousness of the watch world as the Rolex Daytona 6239 ‘Paul Newman’. Originally introduced as a way to revitalise sales of a slow-burning chronograph, the so-called “Exotic” dial has, over six decades, become one of the most iconic and desirable watch designs ever produced.
In our upcoming Watches Auction on 26th February 2026, we are proud to present a superb example of this legendary reference — widely regarded as one of the ultimate grail watches for collectors of vintage Rolex.
Lot 50
Rolex - 'Paul Newman' Daytona
From Cosmograph to Daytona: The Origin Story
When Rolex introduced the reference 6239 in 1963, it was not yet called the Daytona. The model was originally known simply as the Cosmograph. The “Daytona” name was added shortly thereafter, honouring Rolex’s affiliation with the legendary Daytona International Speedway, reinforcing its deep connection to the world of motor racing.
Interestingly, these early references were not branded “Oyster” on the dial. Rolex had yet to introduce screw-down pushers and was cautious about guaranteeing water resistance. That technical development would arrive later, cementing the Daytona’s professional credentials.
Despite its now legendary status, the Daytona was not an immediate commercial success. Priced at approximately $210, it struggled in a competitive chronograph market — particularly against the Omega Speedmaster, which dominated the era.
The ‘Exotic’ Dial That Changed Everything
To boost sales, Rolex introduced alternative dial variants — internally referred to as “Exotic” dials.
Available in contrasting colour schemes (now commonly known as “panda” and “reverse panda”), these dials featured:
- A bold red outer minute track
- Art-Deco style numerals within the sub-dials
- Square markers in the chronograph registers
- Striking high-contrast aesthetics
At the time, they were unconventional and somewhat divisive. Production numbers remained relatively low, as the market did not immediately embrace their avant-garde design.
That rarity, of course, would later become central to their desirability.
The Paul Newman Effect
The dial’s transformation into a cultural icon is inseparable from Paul Newman — actor, racing driver and philanthropist.
Gifted an Exotic dial Daytona by his wife, Joanne Woodward, Newman wore the watch consistently throughout the 1970s. Photographs of him at racetracks and public appearances cemented the visual association between man and model.
In 2017, Newman’s own Daytona achieved $17.8 million at auction — one of the most significant results in watch auction history. What began as a $200 tool chronograph had become one of the most important and desirable wristwatches ever produced.
Today, the Rolex Daytona 6239 ‘Paul Newman’ remains a benchmark vintage Rolex — a watch that defines a collection rather than complements it.
The Jet Age Icon: A 1966 Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 1675 ‘Pepsi’ with Papers
Joining the Daytona in our February sale is another pillar of Rolex sports watch history: a 1966 Rolex GMT-Master 1675 ‘Pepsi’, offered with its accompanying papers.
If the Daytona represents the golden age of endurance racing, the GMT-Master embodies the optimism and expansion of the jet age.
Introduced in the 1950s for Pan American Airways pilots, the GMT-Master allowed wearers to track two time zones simultaneously via its 24-hour hand and rotating bezel. The red-and-blue bi-colour bezel — quickly nicknamed “Pepsi” — became one of the most recognisable design elements in all of watchmaking.
By 1966 the reference 1675 was firmly established as the core GMT-Master model.
It featured:
- Crown guards protecting the winding crown
- A highly legible matte dial configuration
- The classic aluminium red/blue bezel insert
- The robust automatic calibre powering Rolex’s professional tool watches of the era
What elevates this particular example further is the presence of its original papers dated 7.10.67, a chronometer certificate, dated 13.8.1966, alongside a Rolex wallet and other paperwork — a detail of increasing importance in today’s vintage market. Documentation not only enhances provenance but significantly strengthens collectability and long-term desirability.
For collectors, a mid-1960s GMT-Master 1675 with papers represents the sweet spot of vintage Rolex: early enough to retain true tool-watch charm, yet mature enough to embody the full aesthetic identity of the model.
Two Grails. One Auction.
It is rare for two such culturally significant vintage Rolex sports watches to appear in the same sale:
- The 1969 Rolex Daytona Ref. 6239 ‘Paul Newman’ — the ultimate vintage chronograph grail
- The 1966 Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 1675 ‘Pepsi’ with papers — the definitive jet-age travel icon
Together, they represent two defining pillars of Rolex’s professional watchmaking legacy: precision timing for the racetrack and dual-time functionality for a rapidly globalising world.
For collectors seeking investment-grade vintage Rolex watches, this February auction presents a remarkable opportunity to secure watches that are not merely desirable — but historically important.
Register to Bid
Our Watch Sale on the 26th February 2026 showcases some of the most compelling collector watches to come to market this season.
To request further condition details, arrange a viewing, or register to bid on these exceptional Rolex references, contact our specialist watch department or explore the full catalogue online.
True grail watches surface rarely. When they do, collectors take notice.
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