'PRE-DAYTONA' MODEL, REF. 6238, CASE NO. 1'003'342, CIRCA 1963

Fresh to market and from the family of the original owner, the present Rolex 'Pre-Daytona' reference 6238 is attractive, unusual and an alluring example as the original owner later opted to enhance his timepiece with a striking 14k gold and stainless steel Rolex Oyster rivet stretch bracelet, wonderfully contrasting the stainless steel case.

The Reference 6238
Produced from approximately 1962 to 1968, the Rolex reference 6238—often referred to as the “Pre-Daytona”—represents a pivotal chapter in Rolex’s chronograph lineage, bridging the aesthetic transition from classical designs to the sportier Daytona models that would follow. The standard reference 6238 watches have a refined and highly legible minimalist dial with small tachymeter printing on the periphery. Powering the watch is the manually wound Valjoux-based caliber 72B (later renamed the cal. 722 in 1965), renowned for its robustness and precision. Available in stainless steel as well as yellow gold, the reference 6238 remains an elegant yet sporty timepiece, admired for its understated sophistication and its important role in the evolution of Rolex chronographs.