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Lot 2/5 · Watches2017
#2 Most Expensive
The ItemRolex "Paul Newman" Daytona Ref. 6239

A gift from his wife, worn daily for years — Paul Newman's own Rolex sold for $17.75 million.

$17,752,500

The Item

Joanne Woodward gave this Daytona to Paul Newman as a gift, engraved with "Drive Carefully Me" on the case back — a detail that turns a watch into a genuine piece of Hollywood history rather than just a rare dial variant.

Why It Went Viral

The visible wear on the watch — scratches, a worn strap — became part of the appeal rather than a flaw, and the sale is widely credited with cementing "Paul Newman dial" Rolexes as the most coveted vintage watches in the world.

Rolex "Paul Newman" Daytona Ref. 6239Verified · Public record
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