- An ultra-rare "lemon dial" Rolex Paul Newman Daytona has come on the market.
- The Daytona 6246 has an estimated value of £1 million ($1.3 million) and is being sold by Xupes.
- Xupes says this is just the fifth known example of its kind to come to market.
It's not every day that a "lemon dial" Rolex Paul Newman Daytona comes on the market.
This particular Daytona 6264 is being sold by Xupes and has an estimated value of £1 million ($1.3 million).
Xupes says this is just the fifth known example of its kind to come to market.
Similar models have sold recently, one for $734,000 at Sotheby's in April and one for $871,500 at Christie's last year — but neither of those had solid gold bracelets like the one Xupes has acquired.
The yellow gold Daytonas were produced in fewer numbers than the steel models, and even fewer were made with a yellow "lemon" dial.
When it first hit the market, the Rolex Daytona was one of the brand's most undesirable models, far surpassed by Day-Date, Submariner, and Datejust, according to Hodinkee.
It was only when famous actor Paul Newman made a habit of wearing one that the fortunes of the Daytona turned around.
In the decade building up to 2013, the price of Paul Newman Daytonas increased 981% at auctions.
Last year, Newman's very own Daytona sold for $17.8 million, making it the most expensive watch ever sold.
"This piece has been beautifully preserved with all features in excellent condition," describes Joe McKenzie, Founder of Xupes.com.
"There are a few minor marks to lugs commensurate with age but the case retains its original profiles. There is some tarnishing to the yellow gold as the watch has not been worn for a number of years.
"We're extremely excited to have such an iconic timepiece take centre stage in our portfolio of luxury watches."
The watch comes with a period Rolex box, and on a solid gold, riveted bracelet with ref.71 end links.
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