Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 6239 - 59.000€

The Cosmograph Daytona reference 6239 is the very first version of Rolex's famous chronograph. Preceded by the "chronographs" and "pre-Daytona" models, it was initially called "Le Mans" in a Rolex advertisement before ultimately being named "Daytona", reflecting Rolex's partnership with the 24 Hours of Daytona race in the 1960s. Some also suggest that the name "Daytona" was chosen because it was easier to pronounce and use worldwide.
 

Several dial variations were produced, starting with matte black dials featuring contrasting white/silver sub-dials and silver dials with black matte sub-dials. At the time, the model was not a great commercial success, as competitors were offering automatic chronographs during that period. In response, Rolex expanded the range of dials to include Art Deco-style designs with red minute markers, which would later be nicknamed "Paul Newman" dials. This nickname came from the actor and racing driver Paul Newman, who wore one, specifically in reference 6239. This model marks the transition from "classic" chronographs to "sporty" chronographs, as the tachymeter scale moved from the dial to the bezel, giving the bezel a functional purpose, similar to dive watches or those with multiple time zones. The pushers are, of course, round and not screw-down, a feature that would be introduced later.

Our version features a "Big Daytona" dial, named for the large "Daytona" inscription, which also exists in a smaller version.

The tachymeter bezel features "Units Per Hour" at the 3 o'clock position, and the bracelet bears the code "4 68," matching the circa 1969 case (serial number 2045xxx).

The movement used in this watch is based on the Valjoux 72, specifically the Valjoux 722 which is an iconic hand-wound, column-wheel chronograph movement.

This watch is, of course, delivered with a three-year warranty.