Rockstars rocking vintage watches, Part 2 – Paul Newman Daytonas only

Zach Blass

Ever since the “panda” dial Paul Newman Rolex Daytona sold for the GDP of a small African nation, it’s become the preserve of mega-rich rockstars only. And thus, we have just two examples of rockstars wearing it, one from the new school – old mate, Ed Sheeran who is quite the enthusiast and journeyman Eric Clapton. Both on Bund strap, both frequently on stage, and both stellar examples. If there’s ever been inspiration needed to work on your songsmithing to fund your watch habit, surely this is it?

Eric Clapton – Rolex “Paul Newman” Daytona ref. 6239 white “panda” dial in stainless steel

It’s only fitting that a man who needs no introduction wears a watch that needs no introduction as well. Eric Clapton, one of the greatest guitar players who ever lived – and known mentor and hero of John Mayer – presents as the ultimate badass wearing a Rolex “Paul Newman” Daytona ref. 6239 routinely during his performances – and on the classic Bund strap Paul Newman made famous. Most of us would think this is the sort of watch you would never be able to forget was on your wrist, but Clapton is a total legend completely immersed in playing great music – whereas I would be praying I didn’t knock off a chronograph pusher.

Ed Sheeran – Rolex “Paul Newman” Daytona ref. 6239 black “panda” dial in stainless steel

Ed Sheeran, while widely known as one of the biggest pop/rock stars today, is becoming just as notorious for the watch collection he is amassing. He has been spotted wearing highly complicated Patek Philippe, concept Audemars Piguet, and other highly desirable modern watches. However, that doesn’t mean he shies away from vintage. He follows in the footsteps of his heroes, such as Eric Clapton, and also wears a Rolex “Paul Newman” Daytona ref. 6239 on a rockstar chic Bund strap that was sure to grab the attention of the Victoria’s Secret models he was surrounded by.

In a world where forced obsolesce and fads run rampant, it is nice to see some things remain timeless and desirable across generations. These two examples of Paul Newman Daytona’s exemplify a sort of “passing of the torch” between two rockstars, maintaining the iconic status of this vintage timepiece.