A Rolex Daytona “Paul Newman” for $345.97

We are captivated by the stories of a rare and precious treasure and its unsuspecting owner – a rare stamp scored at the flea market, a fascinating picture found in grandpa’s attic. The history of wristwatches is rich in examples that have been able to increase in value over time because they are particularly rare and/or claim an especial provenance, such as a famous wearer or an appearance in a well known film.

Perhaps the best known of the coveted collector’s watches is the “Paul Newman Daytona” by Rolex. A particularly rare and also still unworn example, a 6263, has now appeared at the American Antiques Roadshow. And of course it blew the unsuspecting owner away when he heard what his watch is actually worth.

In response to the sensational discovery, the first watch blogs are now exploring the question of which current watches could, in say 40 years, be the next “Paul Newman” – a hopeless undertaking. The rules that determine the value of coveted collector’s items such as the Paul Newman buck the normal laws of the market. To foresee such developments indicates one thing above all: sheer luck. Such a kiss of fate was planted on an unsuspecting veteran of the US Air Force, and the world of watches can look forward to many more of these wonderful stories, which are such a charming part of this hobby.