The 5 Most Expensive Rolex Watches Sold at Auction in 2024

In 2024, Sotheby’s unveiled an exceptional lineup of Rolex watches that redefined the art of watch collecting. From the iconic "John Player Special" Daytona to the historically significant Day-Date once owned by Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser, explore the five most expensive Rolex watches sold at auction this year.

Rolex Daytona Paul Newman Reference 6241 Circa 1969 1,140,000 USD

This Rolex Daytona Paul Newman Reference 6241, famously known as the "John Player Special," was sold for $1,140,000 in December 2024. This exceptionally rare variant of the "Paul Newman" Daytona takes its name from the striking black-and-gold livery of the Lotus Formula One cars sponsored by John Player & Sons in the 1970s. The reference 6241, produced between 1966 and 1969, is among the rarest Daytona models, with only approximately 3,000 examples made, and an estimated 300 crafted in yellow gold. Even rarer still, only a small fraction of these featured the coveted John Player Special dial, making this particular piece a standout in horological history.

What elevates this watch is its unique 14k yellow gold case, a departure from the more common 18k gold, paired with a matching 14k yellow gold Rolex Jubilee bracelet. This watch's provenance adds to its allure: it was part of Tom Brady's personal collection and gained public attention when he wore it during the New England Patriots' 2023 home opener. The occasion, which honored Brady with an announcement of his induction into the Patriots Hall of Fame, saw the legendary quarterback sporting this iconic timepiece.

Rolex Day-Date Reference 1803 Circa 1963, 840,000 USD

This Rolex Day-Date Reference 1803, sold for $840,000 in December 2024, exemplifies the historical and cultural significance of Rolex’s flagship model. Introduced in 1956 as the first watch to display both the day and date in full on its dial, the Day-Date quickly earned its reputation as the "Rolex President." This 1963 example belonged to Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser, a transformative leader in the Arab world. Known for his dedication to social justice and monumental achievements like the construction of the Aswan High Dam, Nasser left an indelible mark on history. The watch, a gift from his close friend and future president Anwar El Sadat, bears a personalized inscription in Arabic that reads: “Mr. Anwar El Sadat 26-9-1963,” linking two legendary figures in Egyptian history.

This remarkable timepiece remained a constant companion throughout Nasser's presidency, featuring prominently during pivotal moments such as the Six-Day War and key diplomatic meetings. Passed down through generations of the Nasser family, it became one of the leader’s few personal possessions outside museum collections. Its provenance and association with historic events elevate it to the status of a true “presidential” Rolex. Combined with its pristine condition and complete set of original accessories, this Day-Date Reference 1803 serves as a testament to Nasser’s enduring legacy and the watch’s place as an iconic symbol of leadership and unity.

Rolex Daytona Reference 6238 Circa 1968, 768,000 USD

The Rolex Daytona Reference 6238, sold for $768,000 in December 2024, marks an important step in the history of Rolex chronographs. Known as the "Pre-Daytona," this model was one of the last to feature a tachymeter scale on the dial before Rolex moved it to the bezel in later Daytona models. Made around 1968, this particular watch has a clear serial number, 1,836,336, and is crafted in 14K gold, a choice often seen in Rolex watches made for the U.S. market due to import restrictions at the time. Its case back and movement markings confirm it was imported by Rolex USA.

This watch has features similar to the later Daytona models, like the black bezel and two-tone dial, but also includes unique details such as gold chronograph hands and larger print for the "T SWISS T" marking. The watch is in excellent condition and comes directly from the family of its original owner. Its combination of rarity, design, and history makes it a standout piece in the Daytona collection.

Rolex 'Zenith' Daytona Reference 16519 Circa 1997, 360,000 USD

The Rolex 'Zenith' Daytona Reference 16519, sold for $360,000 in December 2024, is among the rarest automatic Daytona models, distinguished by its white gold case and rare salmon dial. Unlike the typical mother-of-pearl dials, the salmon variant's warm tone makes it exceptionally desirable. With only four known examples at auction, this configuration is a true rarity, coveted by collectors worldwide.

Released in 1988, the Zenith Daytona marked Rolex's first use of an automatic movement, powered by the extensively modified Zenith El Primero Caliber 4030. The Reference 16519, crafted in white gold, features a solid metal tachymeter bezel and durable sapphire crystal. The salmon dial’s exclusivity and refined design cement its status as a pinnacle piece in the history of automatic Cosmograph Daytonas.

Rolex Daytona Reference 6265 Circa 1971, 317,500 CFH

The Rolex Daytona Reference 6265 was sold for 317,500 CFH in May 2024. Known as the “Mystery Cross,” this model is one of only four known examples featuring the Swiss cross surrounded by a knotted rope engraved on the case back. This emblem, linked to the Swiss Foundation of Alpine Research, was first identified on supply sacks used during the 1952 Mount Everest expedition. The present watch, consigned by the Feuz family—integral to the foundation’s creation—sheds new light on these elusive and historically significant timepieces.

This Daytona, housed in a 14k gold case and falling within the 2.8 million serial range, shares its lineage with the previously known examples, yet holds unique significance due to its direct connection to the foundation. Gifted by Ernst Feuz, a founding member, to his brother Walter, it remained in the family until now. The watch's impeccable provenance and ties to one of Rolex's rarest and most mysterious designs make it a vital piece for collectors and a key to uncovering the complete story of the Alpine Cross Daytonas.

Buy or Sell Your Next Rolex Watch with Sotheby's

Sotheby’s offers a curated selection of the finest Rolex watches available for immediate purchase, as well as through auctions held in New York, Paris, Zurich, and Hong Kong. Expect to find rare and collectible Rolex models in every sale, including iconic pieces like the Daytona, GMT-Master, Submariner, and more in exceptional condition. Sotheby’s auctions feature an array of Rolex timepieces, ranging from elegant vintage models to contemporary masterpieces, showcasing the brand’s unmatched craftsmanship and innovation.

Prices for Rolex watches start around $10,000 for simpler models like the Datejust and rise significantly for highly sought-after pieces. Iconic models such as the Day-Date and Daytona often command starting prices of $50,000, while rare collectible editions can exceed $200,000.