Description:
The reference 6238 is one of the most iconic Rolex chronographs ever produced. Introduced in 1961 and manufactured until 1967, it represents the final pre-Daytona reference—although for a short period it was produced alongside the early Daytona models. Total production is estimated at around 3,700 pieces, of which approximately 4000 were made in stainless steel, 225 in 14k yellow gold, and just 150 in 18k yellow gold, as in the present example.
Its key defining features include Oyster case, 600-series pump pushers, Oyster Twinlock crown, smooth bezel in matching metal, domed plexiglass crystal and printed tachymeter scale on the dial. Except for the printed scale—later transferred to the bezel—these are the same traits that would go on to define the very first Daytona.
This particular watch belongs to the third series, identified by serial numbers above one million, whose dials were either silver (as on this example) or, more rarely, black. The silver variant could appear in either a lighter tone—like the present example—or in a slightly darker shade. Dating to 1966, it falls right within the period when the 6238 was being produced concurrently with the earliest Daytona references.
It is powered by the caliber 722 movement, introduced in 1965 to replace the earlier Valjoux 72B—a robust, reliable, and historically important manual-wind caliber.
What truly sets this example apart is its remarkable state of preservation. The case, dial, and overall presence remain exceptionally well maintained, making it an extraordinary specimen of one of Rolex’s most significant transitional chronographs.