Rolex. A fine and rare stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with black dial and bracelet
Lot 83

Rolex. A fine and rare stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with black dial and bracelet

SIGNED ROLEX, CHRONOGRAPH, REF. 6238, CASE NO. 1'206'523, MANUFACTURED IN 1965

Closed12 November 2012

Price Realised

CHF 79,800

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Rolex. A fine and rare stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with black dial and bracelet
Signed Rolex, Chronograph, ref. 6238, case no. 1'206'523, manufactured in 1965
Cal. 72B mechanical movement, 17 jewels, black matte dial, applied baton numerals with luminous accents, luminous hands, outer tachymetre scale, three engine-turned subsidiary dials for constant seconds, 30 minutes and 12 hours registers, tonneau-shaped water-resistant-type case, screw back, screw down crown, two round chronograph buttons in the band, stainless steel Rolex Oyster riveted expanding bracelet, case, dial and movement signed
36 mm. diam.

Specialist note

Amongst collectors, reference 6238 is often referred to as the "Pre-Daytona" and enjoys today growing popularity within the community of Rolex collectors. Launched in 1960, reference 6238 was the company's last traditional chronograph wristwatch with polished bezel.
Predominantly available with silvered dials, reference 6238 was also available with black matte or "grainé" dials. Only very few examples are featuring the lacquer surface finish.

The present reference 6238 "Pre-Daytona" with black matte dial appeals not only to the scholars for its very good overall condition but also to those who are looking to wear on of the most beautiful and functional chronograph designs on their wrist.

Clearly designed as a sport watch, reference 6238 maintains, thanks to his case proportions, a very refined but masculine look.

For descriptions and illustrations of the matte version see 100 Superlative Rolex Watches by John Goldberger, pp. 130 & 131 and I Cronografi Rolex - La Leggenda, Pucci Papaleo Editore, pp. 282 & 283.