What kind of watches are captivating auctioneers and enthusiasts around the world? Let's take a look at the glamorous world of auctions through the eyes of Davide Munari, a collector and longtime friend of Masamasa Hirota, editor-in-chief of Chronos Japan.
Phillips' New York auction, "Winning Icons," was held on October 26, 2017.
Davide Munari PROFILE
A collector and investor with many rare pieces, he has extensive knowledge and is well acquainted with many people in the watch industry and auctioneers. It is rare to find someone in the world who views watches worth tens to hundreds of millions of yen at auctions as something to actually buy, rather than as an investment. He currently lives overseas.
A collector and investor with many rare pieces, he has extensive knowledge and is well acquainted with many people in the watch industry and auctioneers. It is rare to find someone in the world who views watches worth tens to hundreds of millions of yen at auctions as something to actually buy, rather than as an investment. He currently lives overseas.
The magnificent world of auctions
Why was the Daytona sold for over 17 billion yen? Looking back at the Phillips New York auction "Winning Icons"

Rolex "Cosmograph Daytona 'Paul Newman'" Ref. 6239. 1968. Manual winding (Cal. 722). 17 jewels. Stainless steel (diameter 37mm). Sold for US$1550 million.
One auction that garnered global press and had an incredible sales record was Phillips' "Winning Icons," held in October 2017. The auction was specifically designed to sell the world's most famous and unique Rolex Daytonas.
Paul Newman's personal Daytona (Ref. 6239) is a model known for its "exotic" dial. After actor Paul Newman wore this watch on his wrist, an Italian dealer and collector named it "Paul Newman" in his honor in the 1980s.
