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ROLEX | DAYTONA, REF 6239 YELLOW GOLD CHRONOGRAPH WRISTWATCH WITH BRACELET CIRCA 1970
Estimate
100,000 - 150,000 CHF
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Description
- DAYTONA, REF 6239 YELLOW GOLD CHRONOGRAPH WRISTWATCH WITH BRACELET CIRCA 1970
Dial: black Calibre: cal. 722-1 manual winding, 17 jewels Case: 18k yellow gold, screw-down back Case number: 2’330’463 Closure: 18k yellow gold brick bracelet with integrated folding clasp signed RolexDimensions: 37 mm, bracelet circumference approx. 195 mm Signed: case, dial and movement Accessories: Rolex guarantee, Leaflet, presentation case, outer packaging and original sales invoice
Condition
MVT: is running at the time of cataloguing and the chronograph working. CASE: in great condition with crisp hallmark to the back, nice proportions and sharp edges. A nice fine patina has developed over time mainly visible to the right band. Very minor surface wear is visible with the naked eye and there is some wear underneath the lug where the bracelet is being attached. The bracelet is in very attractive condition with nice patination and minimal stretching. The case and bracelet in exceptional unpolished condition. DIAL: in great condition. The luminous dots are very even and react consistently to UV light, fading right after exposure. Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense. Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band. Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."
**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."
**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."
Catalogue Note
The reference 6239 is the "original" Rolex Daytona, the watch that would become the most sought-after and celebrated wristwatch ever produced. The model was introduced in 1963 in America and in 1964 in Europe and it was produced until 1969.
It is today admitted that about 14,000 pieces of that reference were produced with only 300 in yellow gold. As such, this version represents less than 2.5% of the total of 6239 made.
Rare is an adjective that can be used for any gold 6239. However, rarity is not enough to make a watch truly special or highly collectible.
Condition is also a crucial element to elevate a piece to a trophy status.
For the present lot, the case has been preserved in superb original condition with strong and large lugs, clearly defined angles as well as most attractive brossé and poli finishes. The holes to the lugs to attach the spring bars are also extremely well defined with a sharp edge. The case back, also retaining its original finish, does not bear a single watchmaker mark inside.
The case looks similar to how it was when originally purchased, with the addition of the subtle patina that only time can provide.
The dial is also in breathtaking condition. The grainé dial is exempt of any marks or scuffs. The lume plots are all present, complete and have been preserved in original condition with a patina perfectly matching the hands and complementing the gold writing and indexes.
Not only this piece is in mesmerizing condition but it is fitted with an extremely rare gold bracelet that is on its own a delight for a connoisseur. The band has a very unusual pattern and perfectly hugs the case of the watch. The yellow gold has today a warm and attractive patina. The clasp is signed inside with a large Rolex logo and, on the outside, a clearly defined raised and larger than usual Rolex crown.
The watch is further accompanied by its original full set comprising the Rolex guarantee, presentation case, outer box, Cosmograph booklet and invoice. The watch, with a 2.2 million serial number, was produced around 1969. It is interesting to note, that according to the documentation, the original owner seems to have paid a deposit in 1973 to finally receive the watch in 1976. This clearly demonstrates the very low number of pieces produced. The original lead time was probably extended to manufacture the bracelet.
In addition to rarity, condition and the accompaniments, provenance is also a key criteria to determine the quality of a timepiece. This watch was kept until today within the family of its original owner. Family tradition said that the piece had been lost years ago during a move. It was just recently rediscovered hidden in the cellar behind a collection of wines.
Rationally, the present lot ticks all the boxes to make it a very important piece. It is also and equally importantly a truly beautiful watch.
It can be stated without exaggeration that this Rolex Daytona 6239 in yellow gold is one of the most attractive and important specimens in its category to have ever been presented on the auction market.
It is today admitted that about 14,000 pieces of that reference were produced with only 300 in yellow gold. As such, this version represents less than 2.5% of the total of 6239 made.
Rare is an adjective that can be used for any gold 6239. However, rarity is not enough to make a watch truly special or highly collectible.
Condition is also a crucial element to elevate a piece to a trophy status.
For the present lot, the case has been preserved in superb original condition with strong and large lugs, clearly defined angles as well as most attractive brossé and poli finishes. The holes to the lugs to attach the spring bars are also extremely well defined with a sharp edge. The case back, also retaining its original finish, does not bear a single watchmaker mark inside.
The case looks similar to how it was when originally purchased, with the addition of the subtle patina that only time can provide.
The dial is also in breathtaking condition. The grainé dial is exempt of any marks or scuffs. The lume plots are all present, complete and have been preserved in original condition with a patina perfectly matching the hands and complementing the gold writing and indexes.
Not only this piece is in mesmerizing condition but it is fitted with an extremely rare gold bracelet that is on its own a delight for a connoisseur. The band has a very unusual pattern and perfectly hugs the case of the watch. The yellow gold has today a warm and attractive patina. The clasp is signed inside with a large Rolex logo and, on the outside, a clearly defined raised and larger than usual Rolex crown.
The watch is further accompanied by its original full set comprising the Rolex guarantee, presentation case, outer box, Cosmograph booklet and invoice. The watch, with a 2.2 million serial number, was produced around 1969. It is interesting to note, that according to the documentation, the original owner seems to have paid a deposit in 1973 to finally receive the watch in 1976. This clearly demonstrates the very low number of pieces produced. The original lead time was probably extended to manufacture the bracelet.
In addition to rarity, condition and the accompaniments, provenance is also a key criteria to determine the quality of a timepiece. This watch was kept until today within the family of its original owner. Family tradition said that the piece had been lost years ago during a move. It was just recently rediscovered hidden in the cellar behind a collection of wines.
Rationally, the present lot ticks all the boxes to make it a very important piece. It is also and equally importantly a truly beautiful watch.
It can be stated without exaggeration that this Rolex Daytona 6239 in yellow gold is one of the most attractive and important specimens in its category to have ever been presented on the auction market.