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Lot Essay
The present timepiece is a fantastic example of reference 6238. It was made especially for export to the United States, as evidenced by the fact that it is cased in 14K yellow gold. This is further confirmed by the movement bridge stamped with the export mark ROW, which was Rolex's import code to the US, signifying delivery to the American market. The dial has a 'Miles' tachymeter scale, which is a correct and highly sought feature for timepieces meant for the American market. On the back of the upper left lug, the case is also stamped with the Swiss squirrel hallmark, which denotes 14K gold. A thin layer of patina has grown over the case over time, enhancing the watch's vintage appeal and harmonizing beautifully with the dial.
It is interesting to note that the present timepiece dates to around the same time as its replacement, the reference 6239. The tiny underline beneath the dial's 'Chronograph"' signature is a subtle but significant detail that is thought to indicate the use of transitional luminous material. This feature appears on only a very small number of watches from this era, adding further intrigue and collectability to the piece.
Reference 6238
Produced from 1961 to 1968, reference 6238 represents the final 'traditional' chronograph from Rolex within the famed Oyster family. Before the more contemporary style of following chronographs appeared, this model was the last to use the traditional design language of a monochromatic dial with a smooth, non-graduated bezel.
The reference is known to collectors as 'Pre-Daytona' as it is commonly believed to be the direct ancestor of the famous Rolex Daytona. It's interesting to note that it was created at the same time as the first Daytona reference 6239. The reference 6238, which is more subtle and produced in smaller quantities than its successors, has garnered more attention from collectors in recent years due to its exquisite design and significant role in the development of Rolex chronographs.
It is interesting to note that the present timepiece dates to around the same time as its replacement, the reference 6239. The tiny underline beneath the dial's 'Chronograph"' signature is a subtle but significant detail that is thought to indicate the use of transitional luminous material. This feature appears on only a very small number of watches from this era, adding further intrigue and collectability to the piece.
Reference 6238
Produced from 1961 to 1968, reference 6238 represents the final 'traditional' chronograph from Rolex within the famed Oyster family. Before the more contemporary style of following chronographs appeared, this model was the last to use the traditional design language of a monochromatic dial with a smooth, non-graduated bezel.
The reference is known to collectors as 'Pre-Daytona' as it is commonly believed to be the direct ancestor of the famous Rolex Daytona. It's interesting to note that it was created at the same time as the first Daytona reference 6239. The reference 6238, which is more subtle and produced in smaller quantities than its successors, has garnered more attention from collectors in recent years due to its exquisite design and significant role in the development of Rolex chronographs.