45 Rolex Very Fine and Attractive Pre Daytona, Manual Wristwatch in Stainless Steel, Reference 6238, With Amazing Silvered Blue Dial

Estimate: € 38,000 –⁠ 70,000

Model: Pre-Daytona
Material: Stainless Steel
Reference N°: 6238
Year: 1962
Case N°: 866490
Caliber: 72B
Movement type: Manual
Bracelet: Leather Strap
Dimensions: 36 mm
Signed: Dial, case and movement

Reference 6238 represents both the end of an era and the beginning of another one for Rolex, which in the following years would become one of their most successful wristwatches ever. Produced from the early 1960 until 1967, the reference 6238 became known as the “Pre-Daytona” because following this model, Rolex removed the tachymeter scale from the dial and added it to the bezel, making the dial and the entire watch appearing larger and also giving the timepiece a less cluttered modern aesthetic. Technically, the model already bears some of the traits which will be present in the subsequent evolutions, such as the calibre that can be 72B or 722, the same found in early Daytona chronographs, the pump pushers which have te same shape and structure of the one on the following model or even the case size. From a collecting point of view, over the last few years most of the attention has turned to the “real” Daytona, still leaving their ancestors 6238 in a situation of limbo, capable of attracting a smaller circle of experts. The situation changes in the presence of an object of high quality and in perfect conditions of conservation. The present specimen of 6238 enchants for its really beautiful preservation and aging. The three-part stainless steel case is in perfect proportions with sharp edges and clean case back with screw down. The argentè dial has that charm that only some watches are able to emanate, with that delicate, absolutely catching patina that has slowly taken possession of the whole disc. The applied dagger indexes and the alpha hands with luminous material are a further preciousness that increase the attractiveness of this watch. Really sought-after and very difficult to find, a Pre-Dayrtona in such conditions and with details is for sure one of those watches that cannot leave indifferent a true Rolex passionate.