197 Rolex A very rare, important and well-preserved, Pre Daytona, manual chronograph wristwatch in 14K yellow gold with silvered and blue tachimeter scale dial, original guarantee and box, reference 6238.

Estimate: € 70.000 –⁠ 140.000

• Model Pre Daytona
• Year 1965
• Reference 6238
• Case Material 14K yellow gold
• Case Number 997'150
• Bracelet Material Leather strap
• Movement Manual, cal. 72B, 17 jewels
• Dimension 36.5mm Diameter
• Signed Case, dial and movement
• Accessories Accompanied by Rolex guarantee dated August 11th 1965 stamped Stanley Jewelry, hang tag and fitted presentation box.
• Literature This specific watch was previously sold in Phillips Geneva "THE GENEVA WATCH AUCTION: SEVEN" auction May 13th 2018, as lot 178 for CHF 143,750.

With its poised, almost architectural restraint, the Rolex reference 6238 represents the final and most refined expression of the pre-Daytona chronograph. Often referred to by collectors as the “Pre-Daytona,” the present example elevates that lineage through its exceptionally rare execution in 14K yellow gold, produced specifically for the American market as confirmed by the “ROW” export stamp on the movement. Even more telling is the presence of the coveted “Miles” tachymeter scale, a subtle yet decisive detail that anchors this watch firmly to its original U.S. destination and adds a layer of historical specificity seldom preserved so intact. The present watch belongs to the exceedingly rare transitional series of reference 6238 and represents one of the very first examples in which Rolex removed the “Oyster” designation from the dial. It is also distinguished by its attractive soleil finish and the delicate blue tachymeter scale, later replaced by the more familiar grey. Perhaps most compelling is the state of preservation. The case retains full, thick lugs and a broad, with two sharply struck hallmarks still crisp beneath the lugs, it stands as a truly top-quality example for the discerning collector. A soft, even patina has settled across the gold surfaces, while the warm luminous dots on the dial harmonize beautifully, creating a visual coherence that only time can bestow. In this condition, the reference 6238 transcends mere rarity to become a true archival object, a chronograph that speaks not only to Rolex’s design evolution, but to the enduring allure of originality.