Watch Paparazzi

Actor Ryan Reynolds spotted wearing Rolex

Ryan Reynolds was recently spotted aboard a private aircraft wearing a yellow gold Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref. 6241 fitted with a Paul Newman dial—a pairing that underscores his refined horological taste. The 39 mm case, paired with a matching yellow gold Oyster bracelet and deployment clasp, catches light distinctly in the aircraft cabin, its cream-coloured dial contrasting sharply against the polished metal.

The Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ref. 6241 debuted in 1966 as the second-generation manual-wind chronograph and remained in production until 1988. Powered by the Calibre 727 movement—a 17-jewel manual-wind chronograph with 21,600 vph beat rate—the 6241 offers a running reserve of approximately 48 hours. The watch measures 39 mm in diameter with a depth of 14.75 mm, water-resistant to 100 metres. The black Tachymeter bezel, printed dial with three subsidiary registers, and pusher guards at 2 and 4 o'clock define the reference's ergonomic and aesthetic standards. Yellow gold examples remain significantly scarcer than steel variants; documented production data suggests fewer than 10,000 yellow gold 6241s were manufactured across the reference's 22-year run.

The Paul Newman dial configuration—characterized by distinctive dial printing, applied indices, and that particular warm patina developed over decades—commands substantial premiums among Daytona collectors. Only a fraction of the existing 6241 population carries this dial, making Reynolds' example a true rarity. Mint examples with original Paul Newman dials have appreciated from estimated retail prices of $12,000–$18,000 in the 1980s to modern estimates exceeding $150,000 on the secondary market.

Reynolds has cultivated a reputation for understated horological sophistication, favoring vintage sports watches over contemporary showpieces. The yellow gold Daytona 6241 with Paul Newman dial signals deep knowledge of chronograph history and collector culture, placing this sighting among the more significant recent celebrity watch discoveries.

Secondary market pricing for yellow gold Daytona ref. 6241 examples with Paul Newman dials currently ranges from $120,000 to $180,000 USD depending on condition, dial patina, and service history. Waitlists are not applicable to vintage pieces; acquisition relies entirely on specialist dealers and auction houses. The reference remains one of the most pursued vintage Daytonas, with demand consistently outpacing available inventory.