WHAT: When a circa 1965 Rolex watch with a $70,000 to $100,000 presale estimate soars to $209,000, there are reasons why. The timepiece was a Cosmograph Daytona Paul Newman Tropical Steel model, aka the most desirable sport Rolex wanted by collectors worldwide.
Reasons for its desirability are many and varied. True believers know that certain case and reference numbers (digits that identify features) are vital. This watch was on point. Important, too, was the dial, a bicolor ivory with faded âtropicalâ brown subdials. That detail is a huge factor in desirability.
MORE: Nuance continues with luminous baton hands. There is no lollipop second hand here. Note the polished and brushed stainless steel band with deployant clasp, and the round button chronograph. Add to that the applied square steel indexes on the subsidiary dials and tachometer grades to 300 units per hour on the steel bezel. All important.
SMART COLLECTORS KNOW: What one cannot see matters as well, from the rhodium plated 17 jewels, a Breguet balance spring (developed by the prestige watchmaker) and Microstella regulating screws.
HOT TIP: Prior to auction, and certainly when serious money is involved, serious collectors and those in the trade often visit previews to open timepieces for a thorough examination with loupe and tools.
BOTTOM LINE: Collectors seek fresh merchandise. The auction house made note that this sale was the first time for the watch at auction. The timepiece got a final boost by selling with original service papers dated May 30, 1995.
