Actor Robert McElhenney spotted wearing a Rolex

Robert McElhenney recently wore a Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref. 6239 Paul Newman dial during a commercial shoot for Wrexham AFC's partnership with Nex Playground, appearing alongside co-chairman Ryan Reynolds. The vintage chronograph on his wrist represents one of the most historically significant timepieces in collecting, a direct visual reference to Paul Newman's own legendary example.

The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref. 6239 powered by the Valjoux 72 movement debuted in 1963 and remained in production until 1969. The reference houses a column-wheel chronograph calibre with 17 jewels, 21,600 vibrations per hour, and a 40-hour power reserve housed in a 37-millimetre stainless steel case with a tachymetric bezel. Water resistance stands at 100 meters. The Paul Newman dial variant features an exotic white dial with applied art-deco numerals, three black sub-registers with painted edges, and the distinctive sunken outer track with red 60-second sector that defines this aesthetic. The bracelet appears to be the original rivet-link Oyster configuration.

The Paul Newman dial configuration renders the ref. 6239 among the most sought references in vintage Daytona collecting. Paul Newman's personal example, gifted by his wife Joanne Woodward, remained unworn for decades before appearing at auction in October 2017, when Phillips New York achieved a world record $17.75 million hammer price. This result fundamentally shifted collector perception; previously undervalued against later references like the ref. 16520, the Paul Newman 6239 now commands prices between $1.2 and $2.8 million depending on condition and dial variant. Original examples remain subject to intense scrutiny regarding dial authenticity and dial printing.

McElhenney's choice reflects a shift in contemporary celebrity watch taste toward historically significant vintage pieces over modern status symbols. The pairing with Ryan Reynolds—himself a noted watch enthusiast—underscores how vintage Daytonas, particularly the Paul Newman dial, have transcended horological circles into mainstream cultural currency. Finding an unmolested example with original dial, hands, and case finishing represents a significant acquisition milestone for serious collectors.