Auction Results: Rolex 6239 Daytona Paul Newman

At an amazing night auction hosted by Phillips, Paul Newman's very own 6239 broke the record for the most expensive wristwatch to sell at auction, selling for $17,752,500 (with buyers premium). What is even more special is that part of the proceeds will go to "The Nell Newman Foundation and Newman’s Own Foundation". Aurel Bacs did a wonderful job honouring Joanne Woodward for her amazing contribution to watch auction history. 

The 6239 was estimated to sell between $1 and $2 million but everyone knew it would fetch for much more. What we did not expect, however, is the opening bid from a telephone bidder to be yelled out at $10 million. This initial bid set the pace for an incredible lot, which represents so much to the watch community.

Not only did Mr Newman wear many Daytona models, which is how the "Paul Newman" Daytona got its name, but he was vital to the rise in popularity of sport model watches. Many in the watch community remember a time not long ago when Daytona's used to sell for pennies on the dollar. Now, many collectors are chasing after these beautifully sought-after watches.

For us at Life on the Wrist, this watch describes everything we look for, and love about the watch community. This watch tells the story of arguably one of the most famous men of the 20th century and his watch. It's engraving shows the love and care from Joanne Woodward for the safety of Mr Newman and is one of the most beautiful gifts anyone could give. It represents the rise of a icons desirability to the watch collector, and the epitomizes one of the best watches to come out of the 20th century.

We would like to congratulate Joanne Woodward on her huge success, and the new owner who has the honour of caring this iconic 6239 through their life of adventure. 

Pictures credits to Phillips.