286 Rolex Former Property of LeeRoy Yarbrough, Extremely Well Preserved, Daytona, Chronograph in Steel, Black Paul Newman Dial, Reference 6239, Published in “Time to Race—Watches and Speed Stories of Men and Machines” by John Goldberger

Estimate: €250,000 –⁠ 500,000

A 20% import VAT is due on the final price including premium, only if it is delivered within the EU.

Model: Daytona
Reference: 6239
Case Material: Stainless Steel
Bracelet Material: Stainless Steel
Year: 1967
Movement: Manual
Caliber: 722-1
Case N°: 1781925
Dimensions: 37 mm
Signed: Dial, Case and Movement
Accessories: Picture of Leeroy Yarbrough with the watch and email from Steve Hodgkins, VP Rolex USA, confirming provenance
Literature: This specific watch is published in “Time to Race—Watches and Speed. Stories of Men and Machines” by John Goldberger and Cesare Maria Mannucci at Page 366-367 and was the personal watch of LeeRoy Yarbrough

Introduced in 1963 as a new-generation chronograph, the Cosmograph quickly gained the name that would cement its status as an icon: Daytona. Designed as the ultimate tool for endurance racing drivers, the Cosmograph Daytona was robust, waterproof, and equipped with a tachymetric scale on the bezel to calculate average speed. Today, 70 years later, manual-winding Daytonas remain highly coveted among collectors. Whether featuring screw-down or pump pushers, these timepieces are essential in any collection, as are the various dials, including the classic versions and the iconic “Paul Newman” style. Originally intended for the American market, but quickly embraced by Italians as well, the Daytona “Paul Newman” has become one of the most captivating phenomena in the watch collecting world. Rolex introduced reference 6239 in 1963 as the first Cosmograph Daytona model in their chronograph lineup. Available in stainless steel, 14K, and 18K gold, it marked the beginning of a legend, and today the Daytona is one of the most sought-after models, with long waiting lists at boutiques worldwide. Typically, Paul Newman dials are characterized by concentric circle patterns on the flat subdials. This gradient offers the familiar aesthetic while setting its dial apart from other well-known versions, with a slight proportional variance from all future “Paul Newman” dial productions. Presented in excellent condition, this rare dial variation is sure to captivate the most discerning Daytona collectors. This watch holds exceptional significance as it was awarded for winning the legendary 1969 Firecracker Daytona 400 race, claimed by the racing icon LeeRoy Yarbrough. Accompanying the watch is a rare photo of Yarbrough proudly wearing it, along with an official email from Steve Hodgkins, Vice President of Rolex USA, verifying its remarkable provenance, symbolizing a true piece of racing history. Additionally, this specific watch is published in “Time to Race - Watches and Speed. Stories of Men and Machines” by John Goldberger and Cesare Maria Mannucci on pages 366–367, and was the personal watch of LeeRoy Yarbrough. LeeRoy Yarbrough was an American race car driver, known for his success in NASCAR during the 1960s and 1970s. Born on September 17, 1938, in Jacksonville, Florida, he rose to prominence in 1969 when he became the first driver to win NASCAR’s “Triple Crown,” which included victories at the Daytona 500, the World 600, and the Southern 500. Despite his success, Yarbrough’s career was cut short due to physical and mental health issues. Presented in excellent condition, this rare dial variation will surely appeal to the most discerning among Daytona collectors but what will absolutely make the heart of passionate bump really fast, is the fact that this watch comes from an important driver.