Pre‑Owned Rolex
Paul Newman Daytona in the UK

Features & variants of the Rolex Paul Newman Daytona

Reference numbers

Paul Newman wore the ref. 6239 Daytona. Other vintage references associated with the “Paul Newman” exotic dial include 6241, 6262, 6263, 6264 and 6265.

Production years

These vintage Rolex Daytona models were produced from 1963 through the late 1980s.

Defining features

The vintage Paul Newman Rolex is famed for its exotic dials with Art‑Deco style numerals and square markers within the sub‑dials, plus contrasting colour schemes (often white “Panda” with black sub‑dials or reverse Panda). Depending on the reference, you’ll find:

  • Approx. 37mm case in stainless steel or yellow gold
  • Manual‑wind Valjoux 72 family movements (e.g., 722/727)
  • Pushers: pump pushers (6239, 6241, 6262, 6264) or screw‑down pushers (6263, 6265)
  • Tachymeter bezel in engraved metal or black acrylic, reference‑dependent
  • Vintage water resistance as with any vintage watch, caution is advised around moisture

History & Legacy of the Paul Newman Daytona

The Paul Newman Daytona is one of the most iconic and collectible Rolex watches ever produced. Introduced in the 1960s, these models are defined by their distinctive “exotic” dial, featuring contrasting sub-dials, Art Deco-style numerals, and a unique outer minute track. Although early Daytona chronographs were initially slow sellers, this rare dial configuration would later become legendary.

The watch takes its name from Paul Newman, the actor, racing driver, and style icon who was frequently photographed wearing his Rolex Daytona. The watch he wore most famously was a reference 6239, gifted to him by his wife Joanne Woodward and engraved on the caseback with the words “Drive Carefully Me.” This deeply personal detail became a defining part of the watch’s story and added to its enduring emotional and historical significance.

Today, the term “Paul Newman Daytona” refers to exotic-dial Daytonas across references such as 6239, 6241, 6263, and 6265. With limited production and sustained collector demand, these watches represent the pinnacle of vintage Rolex collecting - a status firmly cemented in 2017, when Paul Newman’s own engraved Daytona sold at auction for over $17 million, making it one of the most valuable wristwatches ever sold.

Shop our Rolex Paul Newman Daytona selection

Our inventory changes frequently. Browse the available pieces below and contact us for expert photographs, condition notes and provenance checks. If you don’t see the exact Rolex Daytona Paul Newman you want today, we can source it for you.

Why Buy Pre-Owned Rolex Paul Newman Daytona in The UK?

The Rolex Paul Newman Daytona is a vintage icon no longer in production, making the pre-owned market the only route to ownership. Collectors are drawn to the model’s distinctive original dials, period-correct details, and deep motorsport heritage, while buying through BQ Watches in the UK offers transparent pricing, local authentication and servicing, and the reassurance of an established London showroom. Pre-owned ownership also provides access to discontinued references and rare dial variants, potential long-term collectability (not financial advice), and flexible options to part-exchange or sell existing pieces.

Why Choose BQ Watches

Buying a vintage Paul Newman Rolex demands expertise and trust. Expect full authentication, competitive part‑exchange, insured UK delivery and access to our London showroom. Our specialist team is here to guide you at every step.

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Pricing & Value Factors

Values for the Rolex Paul Newman family vary significantly. Rarity, dial originality and overall condition drive pricing more than almost any other elements. Our specialists evaluate each watch on its own merits and provide transparent guidance.

Dial originality & condition: true exotic dials with correct fonts, sub-dial squares and matching patina command premiums.

Reference & pushers: pump-pusher (e.g., 6239/6241/6262/6264) vs screw-down (e.g., 6263/6265).

Case metal & bezel: steel vs gold; engraved metal vs black acrylic.

Movement & correctness: Valjoux 72 family (e.g., 722/727) with period-correct components.

Provenance & documentation: known history, boxes/papers, period photographs increase desirability.

Condition & originality of parts: matching hands, bezel, pushers, crown; minimal polishing.

Popular References & Collectible Models

Ref. 6239 (Paul Newman’s watch)

Typically with engraved metal bezel and pump pushers; exotic dial variants include white/black “Panda” and reverse Panda. Early serials with strong case lines and untouched dials are especially sought after.

Ref. 6241

Known for its black acrylic bezel and pump pushers; attractive contrast with white exotic dials. Period‑correct bezels and hands materially affect value.

Refs. 6262 & 6264

Transitional pump‑pusher references using later Valjoux calibres; rarer in clean, original condition and prized by collectors who prefer the slimmer pusher profile.

Ref. 6263

Screw‑down pushers and black acrylic bezel deliver a sportier look and enhanced case protection; crisp dial printing and correct pushers are key.

Ref. 6265

Screw‑down pushers with engraved metal bezel; strong examples in steel and yellow gold appear at the top end of many collections.

Buying Guides for Men and Women

With an approximate 37mm case, the Rolex Paul Newman wears elegantly on a wide range of wrists. For smaller wrists or a dressier look, consider a quality leather strap; for a sportier presence, an original period bracelet is desirable (condition and stretch assessed by our team).

  • Everyday wear: vintage chronographs benefit from mindful use and periodic servicing
  • Water exposure: avoid moisture; gaskets and pushers on vintage pieces are not intended for modern swimming
  • Fit & comfort: we can size bracelets and advise on strap options for an ideal fit

Source Used Rolex Paul Newman Daytona watches

Choose BQ Watches for a seamless, expert‑led experience. Whether you’re looking to buy pre-owned Rolex Paul Newman Daytona, sell a piece from your collection or arrange a part‑exchange, our team will provide clear options and no‑obligation advice.

If you’re looking to sell or exchange your watch, we’ll offer a competitive cash price or trade‑in value toward any piece you love in our inventory. We also provide professional cleaning, maintenance and appraisal services. Use the form below to tell us what you need and a member of our team will be in touch shortly.

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Frequently Asked Questions

A Paul Newman Rolex refers to certain vintage Rolex Daytona references (e.g., 6239, 6241, 6262, 6263, 6264, 6265) fitted with the sought‑after ‘exotic’ dial. Hallmarks include contrasting sub‑dials, Art‑Deco numerals and distinctive square markers within the sub‑dials. The nickname comes from actor Paul Newman, who famously wore a 6239.

As of 2025, well‑preserved examples typically start around £220,000–£300,000, with rare references, exceptional originality or notable provenance reaching well into the millions. Final pricing depends on reference, dial variant, condition, originality and documentation. Contact us for today’s availability and pricing.

BQ Watches carries an ever‑rotating inventory that may include the Rolex Paul Newman Daytona. If you don’t see one available today, let us know your requirements and we can source a suitable piece through our network.

Our specialists inspect printing quality, sub‑dial square markers, fonts, lume type and placement, handset correctness and period‑appropriate components. We also review serial ranges, service history and any provenance. Every watch we sell undergoes a thorough authentication process with detailed documentation.

Yes. All watches are checked by our in‑house watchmakers and come with a BQ Watches warranty. We offer ongoing servicing and after‑sales support from our London workshop; speak to us for details specific to your watch.

We offer fully insured UK delivery and can arrange secure international shipping to select destinations. Delivery options and timelines will be confirmed during your consultation.

The Paul Newman nickname applies to exotic‑dial variants featuring Art‑Deco numerals and square sub‑dial markers. Standard vintage Daytonas have conventional dials without these distinctive elements, and typically command different prices.

Yes. We accept part‑exchange and can provide a fair, market‑based valuation. Share details and photos via our form to receive options tailored to your requirements.

Many collectors wear vintage chronographs with care. We recommend avoiding water exposure and magnetism, winding gently, and scheduling periodic servicing to preserve performance and originality.
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