In 1963, Rolex launched a new chronograph, which was initially dubbed “Le Mans”, before being officially named “Cosmograph Daytona” in 1964, marking the start of the Daytona story that we know today.

Starting from the middle of the 1960s, Rolex further expanded its catalog and commercialized Cosmographs with so-called “exotic” dials. These dials are immediately recognizable due to the Art Deco-style numerals found in the subsidiary registers.

Today, these exotic dials are synonymous with philanthropic actor and motor sportsman Paul Newman – and watches with such dials are now commonly called “Paul Newman” Daytonas.

When trying to understand the vintage Daytona collection, it is imperative to recognize the one watch that arguably gave birth to vintage Rolex collecting as a whole and inspired many collectors today. It was only after Paul Newman was pictured wearing his watch that collectors’ interest in the Daytona really kicked off.

This new issue of the WATCHID COLLECTIBLES series represents probably the most comprehensive guide to these models available today.