‘Paul Newman’ Rolex Daytona sells for HK$375,000 in Hong Kong

An early Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, more commonly referred to as a ‘Paul Newman’ model, sold for the sterling equivalent of £31,000 at Bonhams’ 26 May, Hong Kong auction.

First introduced in 1961, the then manual-wind Cosmograph from Rolex reached an international audience when worn by the famous American actor in his 1969 film ‘Winning’. The model was a favourite of Newman, frequently seen on his wrist thereafter.

The example sold by Bonhams was of 1963 vintage and had the characteristic square markers on its subsidiary dials – a key feature of the ‘Paul Newman’.

Rolex still makes the Daytona, now with an in-house automatic movement and shoulders to protect the winding crown. It is still a watch with a long waiting list and one that commands a premium. The early models, though, with their variations of dial and classic 60s/70s look are the most highly prized by collectors.

Bonhams will hold collectors’ watch sales in New York (12 June) and London Bond St (13 June). The London sale includes a 1971 'Paul Newman' Oyster Cosmograph Daytona (Ref: 6263) estimated at £40,000 - 50,000.

Photos: Bonhams