57 Rolex A highly attractive and extremely important, Daytona Cosmograph, wristwatch in steel, with silvered dial and brown tropical registers, reference 6239.

Estimate: € 30,000 –⁠ 60,000

The Rolex Daytona manual-wind chronographs represent an era of precision, functionality, and racing heritage that has left an indelible mark on horology. Launched in the early 1960s, these watches were designed to meet the demands of professional drivers and motorsport enthusiasts, featuring highly legible dials, robust movements, and the now-iconic tachymeter bezel. Among the most coveted references in this lineage is the Rolex Daytona 6239, the very first model to bear the legendary “Daytona” name on the dial, cementing its status as a motorsport icon. This particular example, housed in a 37 mm stainless steel case, embodies the raw essence of vintage Rolex design. The watch is powered by the manually wound Caliber 722-1, an evolution of the Valjoux 72, delivering exceptional chronograph performance and reliability. The defining characteristic of this piece is its extraordinary dial, featuring a silver sunburst finish complemented by rare tropical brown sub-registers. Over time, the original black counters have aged into a stunning, rich chocolate hue, a natural process that occurs due to chemical reactions in the dial’s lacquer. This tropical effect is highly prized among collectors, as no two examples age in the same way, making each watch unique. The contrast between the silver dial and warm brown sub-dials add remarkable depth and character, enhancing the overall aesthetic appeal. The applied baton hour markers and sharp steel hands ensure optimal readability, while the external tachymeter bezel, engraved with “Units per Hour,” reinforces the watch’s intended use as a precision instrument for timing high-speed events. The chronograph pushers remain pump-style, a signature trait of early Daytona models, offering smooth actuation and classic vintage charm. Completing the look is a beautifully aged brown leather strap with hand-stitched details, perfectly complementing the tropical patina of the sub-dials. As one of the earliest Daytona models, the 6239 holds an essential place in Rolex’s history, embodying the transition from simple chronographs to one of the most revered and collectible timepieces in the world.