A unique Rolex Oyster Chronograph watch is expected to see the top bids in Christie's forthcoming Rolex Daytona "Lesson One" auction, which will be held on November 10 in Geneva.
 The watch bears the signature of the sultan on the dial |
The auction marks the 50th anniversary of the Daytona, which Christie's describes as "the world's most celebrated chronograph wristwatch".
Leading bids will be a unique example that was produced especially for Qaboos bin Said Al Said, the Sultan of Oman. It is valued at $334,238-668,476.
The 1974-manufactured watch was likely gifted to a high-ranking dignitary, with the sultan renowned for his gifts of various timepieces, and the Rolex Daytona being the highest level of recognition. It bears the red signature of the sultan on the dial, as well as the crest of Oman (Khanjar) on the reverse of the case.
It is accompanied by its original personalised box, with the top of the lid decorated with the Khanjar. Inside is written: "TO. H. M. QABOOS BIN SAID JEWELLERS GOLDSMITHS SILVERSMITHS ASPREY & COMPANY LTD. NEW BOND STREET LONDON."
The auction is comprised of 50 of the most desirable examples of the Rolex Daytona, with the second highest bids expected from a 1969 Paul Newman model that features screw-down pushers and a black background - the most prestigious and sought-after of all Daytona models.
The screw-down pushers make the watch waterproof. A little more than a dozen with this feature combined with black backgrounds were produced, warranting the $222,835-445,651 estimate.
Paul Fraser Collectibles is currently offering Paul Newman's racing jacket - the perfect complement to the Rolex Daytona.
