Did Rolex buy Paul Newman's Paul Newman?
Just speculating here, but come on, wouldn't Rolex want to control what happens with of their most controversial, iconic and probably most know watch?
My guess is that Rolex wants to add it to its museum, collection, this would gain so much more value.
Patek Philippe's museum in Geneva, has a collection of multiple rare and special pieces. Philippe Stern initiated the purchase of various pieces, which for him represented main historical moments or beautiful pieces of the Patek Philippe creations. Imagine what those pieces are valued at today.
Cartier has its Cartier Tradition, the division of Cartier that specializes in vintage pieces from before 1970.
As Bernhard Berger mentioned, he is looking for special pieces.
If I were to be working at Cartier, Omega, Audemars Piguet, or Rolex, I would buy back such a special piece as the Paul Newman Daytona.
Only time will tell, the truth always comes out.
