Phillips To Offer Jabouille’s Rolex “Big Red” Daytona in Upcoming NYC Auction

Summary

  • Phillips will auction Jean-Pierre Jabouille’s Rolex “Big Red” Daytona
  • Renault gifted it for his 1979 French Grand Prix win
  • Estimated between $50,000 – $100,000 USD, the auction will take place on June 7–8 in New York

In the upcoming New York Watch Auction: XII, I’m excited to share that Phillips is putting up for bids a legendary Rolex Cosmograph “Big Red” Daytona Ref. 6265. This particular watch was once owned by the French Formula One champion, Jean-Pierre Jabouille. He received this timepiece from Renault following his historic victory at the 1979 French Grand Prix – a monumental moment marking Renault’s first-ever F1 win and the maiden triumph for a French racing team.

The sentimental and historical value of this watch is evident, as the caseback bears the engraving “DIE TO DRIVE – RENAULT F1 – J.P.J. 79”. This inscription serves as a tribute to Jabouille’s groundbreaking spirit in the world of motorsport.

The Rolex Daytona Ref. 6265 made its debut in 1969 and was produced until 1987, succeeding the initial Oyster Cosmograph model. Known for its screw-down pushers that boosted water resistance, this model bore the prestigious “Oyster” label on its face. The watch case of Jabouille’s model dates back to 1972 and still possesses its original millerighe mark I pushers, a scarcely found trait among vintage Daytonas. It’s believed that when Renault presented him with the watch in 1979, it likely had a “new old stock” Big Red dial, suitable for that time period, adding to its credibility and appeal.

For almost five decades, this watch has been part of the Jabouille family’s collection. It is now ready to be sold at auction, with an expected selling price ranging from $50,000 to $100,000 USD. The event, Phillips’ New York Watch Auction: XII, will occur on June 7-8, 2025, at the auction house’s Midtown Manhattan location. Enthusiastic collectors can browse the complete auction catalog via Phillips’ official website.

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2025-05-21 06:55