3 Vintage Driving Watches You Can Buy Right Now
Just this past weekend, a host of rare and exciting variants of the Rolex Daytona were sold at auction in Geneva. Many realized prices far above their estimates, once again demonstrating the intense enthusiasm for this blue chip chronograph, and watches in general. I myself love a great Daytona as much as the next guy, but lately, it’s the Pre-Daytona’s that are catching my attention. There’s just something about the overall cleanliness of these early Rolex chronographs that really does it for me.
Rolex Pre-Daytona
This piece that’s currently being offered for sale by Davide Parmegiani is simply a stunning example of what a well preserved, honest Ref. 6238 should look like, which is clearly evident, regardless of your degree of familiarity with vintage watches. It’s safe to assume that this piece was worn sparingly and with great care by its previous owner.
Million Chronograph
Next up, we have another chronograph of roughly the same vintage, but from a brand you’ve more than likely never heard of — “Million.” To date, this is the nicest Million I’ve ever seen. It also just so happens to be the only Million I’ve ever seen.
Brand name aside, this is an immaculate looking chronograph, in unpolished, absolute mint condition, offered on a steel “beads of rice” bracelet, and with original box. The watch is also powered by the Valjoux 72, which can be found in other notable chronographs and driving watches like the Rolex Daytona and Heuer Autavia.
Marcel et Cie “Champion” Chronograph
Every once in a while, these Champion auto parts branded chronographs will pop up for sale, but it’s not often that one is found that looks this good. This particular example also has the name Marcel et Cie on the dial. Clean and original is officially the theme of the week!
In addition to having all of the original luminous plots still intact, this piece’s silver dial looks to be flawless, allowing for the red and blue tachymeter and telemeter scales to stand out beautifully. The manufacturer’s choice of applied indices is also quite interesting, and really contributes to the sports-oriented look of this chronograph.
