The Rolex Daytona Paul Newman is a legend among watch enthusiasts, a name synonymous with motorsport, Hollywood glamour, and unparalleled collectability. Within this already highly sought-after family of watches, a specific variation exists, affectionately nicknamed the "John Player Special" (JPS) – a subtle yet significant variation that commands its own stratospheric price tag. This article delves into the fascinating world of the Rolex Daytona Paul Newman JPS, exploring its history, its connection to the iconic Paul Newman himself, and its place within the broader context of Rolex Daytona pricing and collectability.
The Genesis of a Legend: The Rolex Daytona Paul Newman
Before understanding the JPS variant, it's crucial to grasp the significance of the Rolex Daytona Paul Newman itself. Introduced in 1963, the reference 6239, and its later iterations (like the reference 6263 and 6265), became instantly recognizable for their unique dial configuration. This "Paul Newman" dial, as it's now known, features a subdial layout markedly different from the standard Daytona dials of the era. The subdials are typically larger, with contrasting colors and a distinctive, almost art deco-inspired aesthetic. This stylistic departure, coupled with its association with the legendary actor Paul Newman, who famously wore one, cemented its status as an icon.
The story of how the watch became associated with Newman is a captivating one. He received the watch as a gift from his wife, Joanne Woodward, and wore it almost constantly, both on and off the set. Photographs of him wearing the watch, often during his racing career, further cemented its iconic status. This association elevated the watch from a simple chronograph to a symbol of cool, rebellion, and timeless style.
Who Bought Paul Newman's Rolex?
When Paul Newman passed away in 2008, his personal Rolex Daytona reference 6239 was put up for auction. This particular watch, with its unique patina and personal history, attracted global attention. The auction, held by Phillips in New York, became a landmark event in horological history. The winning bid was a staggering $17.8 million, setting a new record for the most expensive wristwatch ever sold at auction at the time. This sale cemented the Daytona Paul Newman's place in the pantheon of highly valuable collectibles and confirmed the incredible demand for authentic, historically significant pieces. The buyer remains private, adding another layer of mystique to the already legendary watch.
The John Player Special (JPS) Variation: A Subtle Difference, a Significant Impact
The Rolex Daytona Paul Newman JPS is a specific variation within the broader Paul Newman Daytona family. Its unique feature lies in its color scheme, directly referencing the iconic livery of the John Player Special racing cars. These cars, sponsored by the British tobacco company John Player & Sons, were known for their striking black and gold color scheme. The JPS Daytonas reflect this livery through their black dials with gold accents, creating a visually stunning and highly desirable variation.
While the exact number of JPS Daytonas produced remains a subject of debate among collectors, their rarity is undeniable. The subtle but impactful color scheme, combined with the already limited production numbers of Paul Newman Daytonas, makes the JPS variant one of the most sought-after and expensive variations within the collection. The combination of the iconic Paul Newman dial and the JPS livery creates a perfect storm of desirability for collectors.
Pricing and Collectability: A Look at the Rolex Daytona Market
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