Paul Newman’s watch collection defies the conventions of most iconic horological enthusiasts. While collectors like Steve McQueen were celebrated for their diverse tastes—wearing everything from Hanhart chronographs to Jaeger-LeCoultre dress watches—Newman’s loyalty belonged to one legendary timepiece: the Rolex Daytona.
The Birth of an Icon: The Daytona “Paul Newman”
The association between Newman and the Rolex Daytona Ref. 6239 is unparalleled in watch history. So strong is the connection that this specific reference is now universally known as the “Paul Newman” Daytona. Its panda dial, red minute track, and exotic subdials have made it the most coveted iteration of the model.
In 2017, Newman’s personal Ref. 6239 shattered records, selling for $17.8 million at auction—a testament to its cultural and horological significance. Today, it resides in the Academy Museum of Motion Pictures in Los Angeles, a fitting tribute to the actor’s enduring influence.
From Underdog to Unstoppable: The Daytona’s Rise
Ironically, the Daytona was far from Rolex’s flagship model when it debuted in the 1960s. Overshadowed by the Submariner and the Day-Date, the chronograph initially struggled to gain traction. Production numbers for the Ref. 6239 were modest, with only a six-year run from 1963 to 1969.
Newman’s embrace of the watch changed everything. As one of its earliest high-profile adopters, his status as a style icon catapulted the Daytona into the spotlight. Combined with Rolex’s limited “Exotic” dial variants, the perfect storm of scarcity and celebrity endorsement turned the model into a grail for collectors.
Beyond the 6239: Newman’s Hidden Daytona Trove
While the Ref. 6239 remains the most famous, Newman owned multiple Daytonas. Among them was the Ref. 6263 “Big Red,” a gift from his wife, Joanne Woodward, engraved with the poignant message, “Drive Slowly.” The watch later passed to their daughter, Clea, in a touching final gesture.
Other notable pieces included a white gold Daytona with a black dial, inscribed “Drive Very Slowly,” and at least two stainless steel models with contrasting dials. The exact number remains a mystery, as Newman never publicly cataloged his collection.
Racing and Watches: A Shared Passion
Newman’s love for the Daytona was intertwined with his passion for motorsport. After training for the 1969 film Winning, he became a competitive racer, even securing a podium finish at Le Mans—an achievement that eluded his friend and rival, Steve McQueen.
The “Drive Carefully” engravings on his watches were more than whimsical notes; they reflected his dedication to speed and precision, both on and off the track.
The Enduring Allure of the Newman Daytona
Decades after his passing, Newman’s Daytonas continue to command astronomical prices at auction. Each rediscovered piece reignites fervor among collectors, proving that the legend of Paul Newman—and his watches—is far from over.
For horologists and fans alike, the “Paul Newman” Daytona isn’t just a timepiece; it’s a chapter in the story of 20th-century iconography. And as the market for vintage Rolex grows, so too does the mystique of the man who made this watch immortal.
