Special Rolex Daytona sets world record at Sotheby’s in flurry of bidding

Marcus Baram
Author Marcus Baram

Marcus Baram is a contributing editor at Crain Currency, where he covers the intersection of finance and politics. Prior to joining Crain Currency, Baram was a staff writer at Fast Company and an editor at Huff Post. He has also written for outlets such as The New York Times, The Atlantic, and Vice. Baram is an expert on economic policy and has a deep understanding of the ways in which politics shapes the global financial system. In his role at Crain Currency, he brings a unique perspective to the complex and ever-evolving world of finance. With his keen analysis and clear writing, Baram helps readers make sense of the important issues impacting the economy today.

May 15, 2023
1 year ago
Rolex_Daytona
Credit: Sotheby's

After lying unused for 50 years, it only took 8 minutes of furious bidding by collectors for an exceptional yellow-gold Rolex Daytona “John Player” to sell for twice its estimate at Sotheby’s Geneva on Sunday.

The $2,491,655 sale price set a world record for that type of watch, which was described by the auction as the “best seen in the last 10 years or more.” This year is the 60th anniversary of the Rolex Daytona — which are prized for their variety, including versions worn by the late actor Paul Newman.

The heated bidding involved two online bidders, two telephone bidders and three people in the room, including the winning collector. 

The Important Timepieces Sale is a part of Sotheby’s Luxury Week, which is online at sothebys.com and concluded Monday. 

Marcus Baram
Author Marcus Baram

Marcus Baram is a contributing editor at Crain Currency, where he covers the intersection of finance and politics. Prior to joining Crain Currency, Baram was a staff writer at Fast Company and an editor at Huff Post. He has also written for outlets such as The New York Times, The Atlantic, and Vice. Baram is an expert on economic policy and has a deep understanding of the ways in which politics shapes the global financial system. In his role at Crain Currency, he brings a unique perspective to the complex and ever-evolving world of finance. With his keen analysis and clear writing, Baram helps readers make sense of the important issues impacting the economy today.