• cal. 722 manual winding nickel lever movement, 17 jewels, mono-metallic compensation balance, adjusted to three positions • black dial, applied faceted indexes, three engine-turned subsidiary dials indicating constant seconds, 30-minute and 12-hour registers • tonneau water-resistant-type case, smooth bezel, two round chronograph pushers in the band, screw-down crown, screw-down case back • case, dial and movement signed  • with a stainless steel Rolex Oyster stretch bracelet

A very rare example. The movement is running, however it may require service soon. The dial is quite clean and in person the printing is silver. The case shows some signs of wear, with some scuffs to the case back and bezel, with dings to the inside of the bezel at 10 and 12 o'clock. The numbers between the lugs are 6238 and 1226652. The inside of the case back is stamped 6238. The bracelet has an overall length of 160 MM
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

For a note on the 'Pre-Daytona,' see lot 95.

Models from th🍌is reference were normally fitted with a silvered dial. ꦿExamples, such as the present, bearing a black dial are very unusual and very collectible in today's market.

For an example of Ref. 6238 with a black dial, see Papaleo, P., I Cronografi Rolex: La Leggenda, pp. 288-289.