On this episode of the Dogwatch we have the true pleasure of visiting with James Cox, who is an environmentalist, business leader, and someone who is a main character in what is possibly the most iconic watch story in the history of wristwatches. We discuss the meaning that can be contained in watches and objects, James’s relationship with Paul Newman, how Newman gave him what is now known as the Paul Newman Paul Newman watch, and the thinking behind eventually putting it up for auction. In the end, this is an episode about ways in which life can be lived, and what we can learn from others. And James even has an incredible surprise in store for the Dogwatch host at the end of the episode.
Our feature today is the Paul Newman Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, reference number 6239. The watch that set this story in motion was purchased at Tiffany’s in New York by Joanne Woodward for her husband Paul Newman. This watch was one of four Rolex reference numbers that are now known as “Paul Newman” Daytonas. The actual watch that Newman wore and eventually gave to our guest James Cox in the 1980s had a cream dial with black sub-dials. Although it sold on a steel bracelet, it became famous on a black leather bund strap. The watch sold for 17.8 million at Phillips auction house in New York in 2017.