Today, we will talk to you about the holy grail of all pump-pusher Rolex Daytonas: the Paul Newmans with Musketeer Dials
What are Musketeer Dials?
A Musketeer Dial is an extremely rare variant of a vintage 4-digit reference Daytona. In this article, we will talk about their exotic versions, better known as the “Paul Newmans“.
It is believed that Musketeer Dials were the result of an experiment proposed by famed Rolex dial-maker Singer, in order to accentuate the 3D effect on the dials of the Rolex Daytonas at the time. They were in production for less than a year, and can only be found exclusively on the steel versions of the ref. 6262 and ref. 6264.
It may not sit well with many watch dealers and resellers, but our extensive research and reputable sources confirm that Paul Newman Musketeer Dials appear only on exemplars which fall into the 2350xxx-2450xxx serial number range. This means that they had to have been manufactued in 1970 and belong to the aformentioned references. Anything else is either not coeval, or worse, counterfeit.
How can I recognise one?
Fist things first: the dial must be red, black and white – the famous tricolour dial.
Black is the main colour of the dial, white is the colour for the chronograph subdials and the external circumference, and red is the colour of the minute track.
(alternatively, a version exists with white, black and red, respectively)
The most important detail in identifying a Musketeer Dial lies in its chronograph subdials. The multiple levels and depths in the finishing make the three-dimensional effect more pronounced on Musketeer Dials than they do for regular Paul Newman dials. You can easily spot the difference in the image below.
Musketeer chronograph subdials have a smooth outer circumference, which accentuate the contrast with the concentric circles on the inner portion. Regular subdials present concentric circles only.
Musketeer Dials on the Aftermarket
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In summary…
To recap, an authentic and coeval Paul Newman Daytona with a Musketeer Dial must meet the following criteria:
- Reference 6262/6264 with a steel case
- A stepped dial with a red minute track (tri-colour)
- Concave, three-dimensional chronograph subdials
- An Oyster Bracelet with folded links
- Serial number between 2350xxx & 2450xxx
A big thanks to Teddy @watches2.8 for his help in preparing this guide!
-Translated by Patrick R.
