Watches hold historic significance throughout time, whether it’s a highly collectible reference released by the manufacturer or an example owned by someone special. Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo will be auctioning the Racing Pulse, two magnificent timepieces owned by Paul Newman and Steve McQueen.
The Rolex featured in Racing Pulse is a Paul Newman personal Reference 6263 “Big Red” Cosmograph Daytona. This Daytona is one of the world’s most important Rolex watches. As it was the watch, he wore the most in a two-decade span. It was a 25th anniversary present from Joanne Woodward that features an engraving on the caseback that reads “Drive Slowly, Joanne” The watch is currently being cosigned by Clea Newman. She received the Rolex before the passing of her father. A timepiece with such significance behind it will surely be a highlighted item during the auction.
The TAG Heuer Monaco presented as part of Racing Pulse was personally owned by Steve McQueen and featured in his iconic racing film, Le Mans. This example is the last of two known Monaco watches owned and gifted by Steve McQueen to be offered publicly, making this an incredibly rare collectors’ piece. The watch consigned by Haig Alltounian, McQueen’s mechanic, received it as a gift during the filming of Le Mans. An engraving that reads “To Haig Le Mans 1970” was put on the caseback of the Reference 1133 Monaco by Steve McQueen. This TAG Heuer Monaco is an incredible example of automotive and cinema excellence.
