It seem everybody really does love Pandas.
No – we are not talking about the cute animals in the Zoo. Rather a Daytona model from Rolex which collectors have nicknamed ‘Panda’.
Judging from the Antiquorum auction that just finished a few hours ago, Rolex Daytona, especially the rare examples with exotic dials (also know as Paul Newman versions) remain more in demand than ever. Lot 289 – a Rolex 6263 ‘Paul Newman’ Daytona ‘Panda’from 1970 (the watch above), sold for $228′ooo including fees (for all the details of the watch click here). What is so special about the watch above? Well many things. For one, it is one of the last Paul Newman Daytona’s made with screw down pushers (allowing for water resistance). Oyster cases are always more sought after than normal or ‘pump’ pushers. Secondly this dial variation is called the ‘Panda’ dial. Panda due to the black and white dial that resembles-well- a Panda. It is only black and white with no other color on the dial. This watch was not in perfect condition, but it had one great asset: It came from the original owners family and was only serviced at Rolex USA. It came with the original box, guarantee (now obviously void), instruction manual and booklet as well as original box. This gives collectors piece of mind. The Paul Newman Daytona is perhaps one of the most sought after watches in the world but unfortunately also one of the most ‘forged’. Originality, in this case, comes at a large premium.
