Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 40 mm
DIVERSE HORIZONS NAVIGATING THE WORLD OF TIMEPIECES IN 2024
Curated by Frank A. Aguilar Collector and watch lover until the end of time
In the ever-evolving realm of horology, 2024 unfolds as a year of boundless possibilities, where wristwatches cease to be mere timekeeping tools and transform into distinctive expressions of style, personality and functionality. From classic models that transcend eras to cutting-edge tech-infused smart companions, the world of timepieces beckons with myriad choices to suit every taste and lifestyle. Delve into the stories behind these legendary timepieces worn by presidents, athletes and celebrities. Whether you seek sporty adventure or timeless elegance, discover your perfect statement piece in this curated collection and appreciate these untouchables as the art forms they truly are.
CHRONICLES UNBOUND: UNVEILING TIMEPIECE TALES A TIMELESS CLASSIC - PRESIDENTIAL The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Day-Date 40 mm in 18-karat yellow gold features a white dial, a fluted bezel and a President bracelet. Lyndon Johnson was among the first presidents to don the Day-Date, followed by John F. Kennedy, Richard Nixon, Gerald Ford, Ronald Reagan and Donald Trump. JFK was also rumored to have been gifted a Day-Date by Marilyn Monroe. Reportedly, JFK told his aide to get rid of the watch and the note—and it successfully stayed out of the public eye for more than four decades before hitting the auction block in 2005 and selling for $120,000. Rolex.com
Rolex Retailer: RolexBoutique-DesignDistrict.com THE LEGENDARY PAUL NEWMAN TIMEPIECE ICON
The Paul Newman Rolex Daytona, as it’s fondly known, holds legendary status in horology and beyond. In the late ’60s and early ’70s, actor and race car driver Paul Newman frequently sported the Rolex Daytona ref. 6239 featuring a white dial with black subdials. Its unique allure was enhanced by red minute markers and “Daytona” in red above the 6 o’clock subdial. Gifted by Newman’s wife, Joanne Woodward, during the filming of Winning in ’69, the watch became synonymous with Newman. Its association with the actor’s public appearances, notably while racing, propelled it to legendary status. Today, this Rolex Daytona remains highly coveted and a symbol of timeless style, etching its place in watch history with a record-breaking auction price of $17.75 million. Rolex.com
Rolex Retailer: RolexBoutique-DesignDistrict.com 98 LUXURY GUIDE USA
Message engraved on the back: “Drive Carefully – Me”
WATCH OF MYTHICAL PROPORTIONS
The Patek Philippe ref. 2499 is revered by collectors as one of the finest wristwatches ever made. Produced from 1950 to 1985, it’s a horological masterpiece with a perpetual calendar, monophase and chronograph. Only 349 were made, showcasing unique craftsmanship. The iconic timepiece, famously worn by John Lennon, commands extraordinary admiration and will certainly fetch an astronomical price at auction. In the realm where pop culture, fame and haute horology converge, this watch reigns supreme. Lennon’s effortlessly cool style, captured in photographs with the watch, adds to its allure. Yet an enigmatic backstory surrounds it, entwining the timepiece with a legend of being Lennon’s 40th birthday gift from Yoko Ono in 1980. Despite Lennon’s tragic demise, the Patek Philippe ref. 2499 endures as a symbol of mystique and glamour in horological lore. Recently resurfacing in Geneva, this Patek Philippe had disappeared for years and sparked a legal dispute. Ono’s rightful ownership was upheld by a Geneva court in June, although the unidentified collector is appealing. While Ono’s lawyers estimate its value at $4.5 million, experts suggest it could be worth even more, considering Lennon’s monumental place in musical and cultural history. The missing wristwatch remains a holy grail for collectors, perpetuating its legendary status. Patek.com
Paul Newman Rolex Daytona
Patek Philippe ref. 2499
