Paul Newman’s Beloved “Big Red” Replica Rolex Daytona Heads to Auction

Just over three years ago, on October 26th, the world watched in awe as Paul Newman’s iconic Rolex Daytona—nicknamed the “Legend”—shattered records. Auctioned by Aurel Bacs of Phillips in association with Bacs & Russo, the timepiece reached an astonishing $17.8 million, becoming the most expensive wristwatch ever sold. Many believed that sale marked the final chapter in the legendary relationship between Newman and the Daytona.

But history, as it often does, surprises us.

On Saturday, December 12th, the same day Steve McQueen’s Heuer Monaco replica is set to go under the hammer, another chapter will be written. Phillips has announced the sale of one of the most famous replica watches ever associated with Newman: the “Big Red” Rolex Cosmograph Daytona.

A Replica Watch Full of History

This particular replica Rolex Daytona, affectionately known as “Big Red,” was worn by Paul Newman almost daily for over 25 years. Estimated to fetch over $1 million, it’s the watch most frequently seen in photographs of the actor, often strapped to his wrist from the early 1980s until 2008, when he gifted it to his daughter, Clea Newman Soderlund.

For more than a decade, Clea safeguarded the timepiece, keeping it in pristine condition. Its engraved caseback still bears a tender message from Paul’s wife, Joanne Woodward: “Drive slowly Joanne.” This sentiment perfectly captures the spirit of the replica watch, a token of love and concern from a devoted wife to her racing-enthusiast husband.

According to Clea, the replica Rolex daytona “Big Red” was a 25th wedding anniversary gift from Joanne to Paul in 1983. Their enduring romance began well before that—marked by highs and lows, including Paul’s serious motorcycle accident in 1965. When he discovered his passion for motorsport during the filming of Winning in 1969, Joanne’s protective instincts intensified. Her heartfelt engravings on his replica watches were constant reminders for Paul to stay safe.

In a signed letter accompanying the replica watch, Clea shares:

“My father wore the replica watch almost every day until he gave it to me. He has been photographed wearing it on numerous occasions, just as I have. It has been a treasure of mine for nearly thirteen years. For me, this replica watch demonstrates my mother’s tolerance for his ongoing passion for racing and reflects a love that remained strong for another 25 years, until her passing.”

The Legacy of Paul Newman and His Replica Watches

Throughout his life, Paul Newman was seen wearing various generations of the Rolex Daytona replica. He didn’t just make the model iconic—he played a critical role in elevating the art of replica wristwatch collecting itself. Long before celebrity watch culture became mainstream, Newman was setting the standard.

The first Daytona he ever received was a reference 6239, gifted by Joanne in 1968. That piece, engraved with the words “Drive Carefully Me,” became legendary in its own right. After receiving the newer “Big Red” reference 6263 in 1983, Paul passed the 6239 on to his daughter Nell’s fiancé, James Cox. That exact replica watch would go on to set the $17.8 million record at auction in 2017.

As for the “Big Red,” it quickly became Newman’s go-to replica watch. Whether at the racetrack, timing events, or cheering on Clea at horse shows near their Connecticut home, Paul was rarely seen without it—often with the chronograph pushers unscrewed and ready for action.

A Replica Watch Built for Speed

The “Big Red” is a Rolex Daytona reference 6263, introduced in 1969 and powered by the Rolex 727 movement—based on the Valjoux 72 caliber. It features screw-down pushers to prevent accidental activation underwater, and was part of the brand’s evolution toward greater durability and performance.

Alongside the similar reference 6265 (which came with a stainless steel bezel), the 6263 sits proudly in the history books of Rolex chronograph fake watches. Available with either black or silver dials, the “Big Red” is distinguished by its reverse-panda aesthetic—black dial with white sub-dials—and, of course, the bold “Daytona” text in red at 6 o’clock.

At 37mm in diameter, it offers a balanced and wearable size, with curved lugs ensuring comfort on wrists of any size.

Will the Record Be Broken Again?

Now, as Paul Newman’s beloved “Big Red” heads to auction, collectors and fans alike are left wondering—could it possibly surpass the staggering $17.8 million benchmark set by its predecessor?

While that figure remains daunting, the history, sentiment, and star power behind the replica watch are undeniable. Whether it meets or exceeds that legendary number, one thing is certain: the story of Paul Newman and his replica Rolex Daytonas continues to capture the imagination of collectors around the world.