The 5 Most Expensive Rolex Watches Sold by Sotheby's in the First Half of 2024

S otheby's global team of Rolex specialists continued to bring a wide range of extraordinary Rolex watches to auction in the first half of 2024. The iconic Rolex Daytona continue to dominate the most expensive Rolex watches sold across our global sale network, including those of fascinating provenance and significant rarity. In this summary we recap the top 5 most expensive Rolex watch lots brought to market by Sotheby's in H1 2024.

1. Rolex Daytona Alpine Research Reference 6265 Circa 1971 317,500 CHF

This Rolex Daytona Reference 6265, known as the Alpine Cross, was sold for 317,500 CHF in May 2024. A unique and elusive piece, this model is one of only four known examples. The Swiss cross logo on the case back, surrounded by a knotted rope, linked this model to the Swiss Foundation of Alpine Research. This fourth watch was consigned by the Fuez family, instrumental in founding the Alpine Research foundation and therefore adding significant historical value. The watch was gifted by Ernst Feuz to his brother Walter, who kept it until his passing in 2000. The pristine condition of this Rolex Daytona watch, combined with its association with the 1952 Everest expedition, made it a coveted item.

This Rolex Daytona fell within the 2.8 million serial range, with the last three digits engraved inside the case back. Its rarity and direct connection to the foundation that commissioned it made this a standout piece. While the full story of the Alpine Cross Daytonas remains a mystery, this watch has added another piece to the puzzle as a significant and historical artifact in the world of luxury sports watches.

2. Rolex Daytona Paul Newman Cosmograph Reference 6241 Circa 1968, 2,413,000 HKD

This Rolex Daytona Paul Newman Cosmograph Reference 6241 was sold for 2,413,000 HKD in April 2024. Produced between 1965 and 1969, the Rolex Daytona Paul Newman Reference 6241 is one of the rarest and most desirable Rolex Daytona models. This particular example featured the iconic Paul Newman dial characterized by square indices in the subsidiary registers and was a staple in the actor’s collection. Despite its initial lack of popularity, the exotic dial has become a symbol of watch collecting. This reference reappeared with a similar design in recent years, honoring the 100th anniversary of the Le Mans endurance race.

This example retained its original lume and came with its original box and guarantee - a rarity among vintage Rolex Daytona watches. Its combination of condition, completeness, and historical significance made it a highly sought-after timepiece.

3. Rolex Daytona UAE Reference 6263 Circa 1978, 300,000 USD

The Rolex Daytona UAE Reference 6263 was sold for 300,000 USD in March 2024, included in the debut auction held in Dubai by RM Sotheby's, our leading car auction division. Produced in 1964, the above model is distinguished by its personalized dial featuring the UAE coat of arms and the Arabic signature of His Royal Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. This unique personalization elevated this Rolex Daytona watch status among collectors. This Rolex Daytona watch also featured an acrylic bezel and screw-down pushers, a departure from earlier models.

The Reference 6263 was an evolution of the original Rolex Daytona Cosmograph first introduced in 1963. Its stainless steel case and later stainless steel bracelet added to its robust design. The history and distinctive features of this Rolex Daytona became a significant piece in Rolex's racing-inspired collection.

4. Rolex Daytona Oyster Sotto MKII Reference 6263 Circa 1969, 254,000 CHF

The Rolex Daytona Oyster Sotto MKII Reference 6263 was sold for 254,000 CHF in May 2024. The above watch is a rare and highly coveted model, with only around 20 known to exist. The term Oyster Sotto, meaning Oyster Under in Italian, refers to the unique placement of the word Oyster beneath Rolex Cosmograph on the dial. This model represented a significant advancement for Rolex, with its waterproof chronograph joining the ranks of the brand’s legendary Rolex Daytona Oyster watches.

The Rolex Daytona Oyster Mark II series featured a distinct dial configuration with serifed letters and rounded characters. The watch’s original bracelet and case back, stamped 6239 and C.R.S., added to its historical significance. This watch was a true collector's item and a key piece of Rolex history.

5. Rolex Daytona Reference 6265 Retailed by Tiffany & Co. Circa 1978, 216,000 USD

The Rolex Daytona Reference 6265 was sold for 216,000 USD in June 2024. This model was released in 1971 and marked a significant evolution in the Rolex Daytona lineup. This model introduced the waterproof Oyster case, screw-down pushers, and the renowned highly-accurate caliber Valjoux 727 movement. This particular watch was encased in 14k yellow gold with a champagne dial featuring the highly sought-after Tiffany & Co. signature. The collaboration between Rolex and the legendary American jeweler added an element of exclusivity and rarity to the watch.

As one of the last references of the four-digit Rolex Daytona Cosmograph generation, the Reference 6265 represented the culmination of the Rolex brand’s technical advancements. The Tiffany & Co. signature made this piece even more desirable to collectors, solidifying its place as one of the most expensive gold Rolex Daytona watches ever sold at Sotheby’s.

Sell or Source Your Next Rolex Watch

These five Rolex Daytona watches, each with its own unique story and historical significance, drew considerable interest from Sotheby's global client base. We remain one of the global leaders in the sale of exceptional Rolex watches, drawing upon our highly experienced network of Rolex specialists.