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Rolex Chronograph ‘Pre-Daytona’ 6238 - Argenté Soleil Dial - Oyster Rivet Bracelet

Rating: vB
Reserve: No
Lot: 2026G0558
Sold For
XX,xxx € loader
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on Tue 07/28/2026 at 3:22 PM (UTC)
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Description

Rolex Chronograph ‘Pre-Daytona’ 6238 - Argenté Soleil Dial - Oyster Rivet Bracelet

The Rolex reference 6238 occupies a particularly important position in the history of the manufacture’s chronographs. Produced during the 1960s, it is commonly known among collectors as the 'Pre-Daytona', reflecting its role as the direct stylistic and technical predecessor of the Cosmograph Daytona.

The 6238 serves as the pivotal link in Rolex's chronograph lineage, bridging the brand's earlier, more traditional models with the modern and sporty counterpart that directly followed. Its transitional nature is reflected in a design that seamlessly blends these two souls and aesthetics, making it highly appealing to collectors who appreciate vintage-inspired dials while also valuing a sportier case. The 6238's case is, in fact, nearly identical to the one later adopted for the 6239, perfectly balanced at 36mm: one of the most versatile and timeless proportions in watchmaking. As for the dial, it's worth noting that the 6238 was the last Rolex chronograph to feature graduated scales printed directly on the dial. This allowed the bezel to remain plain and smooth, giving the watch a more refined and understated appearance compared to its successors. It was also the last chronograph produced by the Crown to feature monochromatic dials. 

At its heart is a manually wound chronograph movement derived from the celebrated Valjoux 72 architecture. Renowned for its traditional column-wheel construction, reliability and clear mechanical layout, this calibre family was extensively used by Rolex throughout the development of its historic hand-wound chronographs.

Its relatively limited production, elegant proportions and close relationship with the earliest Daytona models have made it one of the most significant and sought-after vintage Rolex chronographs.

This well-preserved example, dates to 1963, and comes in the most quintessential and representative configuration for the reference: boasting the argenté dial with the soleil finishing, that gives the watch a vibrant, living quality under the light. 

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Details

BRAND Rolex
MODEL Pre-Daytona
REFERENCE 6238
YEAR 1963
CASE SIZE 37mm
CASE MATERIAL Stainless Steel
STRAP/BRACELET MATERIAL S. Steel Oyster Riveted, max lenght up to 17cm circa (11 Links total)
GLASS Plexiglass
MOVEMENT Mechanical Manual Winding
DIAL Argenté Soleil
BEZEL Stainless Steel Smooth
CLASP/BUCKLE Stainless Steel Deployante
SET No
Chronocomparator

Chronocomparator

This watch is used and has not been serviced or cleaned by us. If you wish to request this service, please make an express request. The measurement of the functioning of the watch on the chronocomparator is provided as a courtesy and with the aim of giving users as much information as possible.