On October 26, 2017, the world of horology witnessed a seismic event. Paul Newman's personal Rolex Daytona, a watch steeped in legend and imbued with the charisma of its iconic owner, smashed all previous records, becoming the most expensive wristwatch ever sold at auction. The hammer fell at Phillips in New York, and a staggering sum – $17,752,500 – changed hands, solidifying the watch's place not only as the most expensive Rolex Daytona ever sold, but also as a pivotal moment in the history of watch collecting. This article delves deep into the intricacies of this momentous auction, exploring the watch itself, the identity of the buyer, the factors contributing to its astronomical price, and the broader impact it had on the collector's market.
The watch in question, a Rolex Daytona reference 6241, is more than just a timepiece; it's a piece of living history. Its "Paul Newman" dial, characterized by its distinctive sub-registers with contrasting colors and an unusual font, has become synonymous with a specific era of cool and a certain rebellious spirit. This specific example, gifted to Newman by his wife Joanne Woodward, carries an undeniable aura of personal connection and celebrity provenance. Its exceptional condition, considering its age and the fact that it was worn by a highly active and adventurous individual, further enhanced its desirability. The Rolex Daytona 6241 Paul Newman is far more than a mere chronograph; it's a tangible link to a Hollywood legend and a symbol of a bygone era of effortless style.
The auction itself was a spectacle, drawing significant media attention and attracting seasoned collectors and newcomers alike. The atmosphere was electric, with palpable anticipation hanging in the air as the bidding escalated. The final price of $17,752,500 not only eclipsed all previous records for a wristwatch sold at auction, but also dramatically surpassed pre-auction estimates. This staggering sum immediately cemented its place as the most expensive watch ever sold at the time, a title it held for several years, showcasing the extraordinary power of provenance and celebrity ownership in the high-end watch market. The Paul Newman Daytona watch price, therefore, transcended its intrinsic value, becoming a symbol of status, legacy, and the enduring allure of Hollywood glamour.
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