Rolex Daytona Paul Newman: History, Prices and Rare References
Key Points:
The Rolex Daytona Paul Newman is defined by its rare exotic dial design, featuring Art Deco numerals, contrasting sub dials and distinctive crosshair details.
Originally overlooked by buyers, Paul Newman Daytonas have become some of the most valuable vintage Rolex watches ever produced.
Key references include the 6239, 6241, 6262, 6263, 6264 and 6265, with prices ranging from hundreds of thousands to millions of pounds.
Paul Newman's personal Ref. 6239 sold for $17.75 million in 2017, cementing the model's status as a collector's grail.
The Rolex Daytona Paul Newman is one of the most celebrated and valuable vintage watches ever produced. Originally introduced as a variation of the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, it was distinguished by a unique "exotic" dial design that initially attracted little attention from buyers. Decades later, those same details transformed the watch into one of the most sought after collector’s pieces in the world, with certain examples selling for millions at auction.
Its legendary status is closely tied to Paul Newman, the acclaimed actor, racing driver and philanthropist who regularly wore a Daytona gifted to him by his wife, Joanne Woodward. As interest in vintage Rolex watches grew throughout the late twentieth century, collectors began referring to these exotic dial Daytonas as "Paul Newman" models. Today, the name represents far more than a single watch. It encompasses a group of rare references, a remarkable chapter in Rolex history and one of the most influential stories in the world of watch collecting.
Who Was Paul Newman?
Paul Newman was one of the most respected and recognisable figures of the twentieth century. Born in Cleveland, Ohio, in 1925, he built an extraordinary career that spanned acting, directing, motorsport and philanthropy. Throughout his life, Newman became known not only for his professional achievements but also for his authenticity, competitive spirit and charitable work. He passed away in 2008, leaving behind a legacy that extends far beyond Hollywood.
Newman rose to international fame during the 1950s and 1960s, starring in a series of critically acclaimed films including The Hustler, Cool Hand Luke, Butch Cassidy and the Sundance Kid and The Colour of Money, for which he won an Academy Award. His distinctive screen presence and enduring popularity made him one of the most influential actors of his generation.
Away from the film industry, Newman developed a serious passion for motorsport. What began as preparation for the 1969 racing film Winning soon evolved into a lifelong commitment to competitive racing. Unlike many celebrity enthusiasts, Newman competed at a high level, earning victories in professional racing events and achieving notable success at prestigious competitions, including the 24 Hours of Le Mans. His dedication to racing became a defining part of his identity and played an important role in his association with Rolex.
Paul Newman’s connection to Rolex began when his wife, actress Joanne Woodward, gifted him a Rolex Daytona during the early years of his racing career. The watch, engraved with the famous message "Drive Carefully", became a constant companion both on and off the track. Photographs of Newman wearing his Daytona appeared in magazines, newspapers and racing publications for decades. Over time, collectors began associating a specific style of exotic dial Daytona with the actor himself. What started as an unofficial nickname eventually became one of the most famous designations in watch collecting, giving birth to the legendary "Paul Newman Daytona".
The Origins of the Rolex Daytona
The story of the Rolex Daytona began in 1963 when Rolex introduced the Cosmograph, a purpose built chronograph designed for professional racing drivers. At a time when motorsport was gaining global popularity, the company recognised the need for a watch capable of accurately measuring elapsed time and average speed. Unlike Rolex's diving and exploration watches, the Cosmograph was developed specifically for use on the racetrack.
Shortly after its launch, Rolex strengthened its connection with American motorsport by partnering with the famous Daytona International Speedway in Florida. The watch soon adopted the name "Daytona", paying tribute to one of the world's most important racing venues. By the mid 1960s, the Daytona designation appeared prominently on the dial, creating the identity that remains synonymous with Rolex's chronograph collection today.
Several features distinguished the early Daytona from other chronographs of the era:
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A tachymeter scale positioned on the bezel rather than the dial for improved legibility.
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A manually wound chronograph movement based on reliable Valjoux calibres.
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A clean and highly functional dial layout designed for timing motorsport events.
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Oyster case construction that provided greater durability for active use.
Despite its technical strengths, the Daytona was not an immediate commercial success. During the 1960s and early 1970s, demand for manually wound chronographs remained relatively modest, and many examples sat in dealers' display cases for extended periods. Ironically, this lack of popularity contributed to the model's future desirability, as production numbers remained comparatively low.
Throughout the late 1960s and 1970s, Rolex continued refining the Daytona with updated movements, improved water resistance and new bezel configurations. References such as the 6239, 6241, 6262, 6263, 6264 and 6265 gradually evolved the collection while maintaining its core racing identity. These references would later become some of the most coveted vintage Rolex watches ever produced, particularly when fitted with the distinctive exotic dials that collectors now know as Paul Newman dials.
What Is a Paul Newman Daytona?
The term "Paul Newman Daytona" refers to a specific type of vintage Rolex Daytona fitted with what collectors call an exotic dial. Contrary to popular belief, it is not a separate Rolex model. Instead, it describes a small group of Daytona references produced during the 1960s and 1970s that featured distinctive dial designs.
These watches became associated with Paul Newman after the actor was frequently photographed wearing his own Rolex Daytona Ref. 6239. Over time, collectors began using his name to identify Daytonas fitted with similar exotic dials.
Compared to a standard Daytona, a Paul Newman Daytona can be recognised by its contrasting sub dials, Art Deco style numerals, square tipped markers and crosshair details within the registers. While the case, movement and overall construction are often identical to regular Daytonas of the same reference, the dial alone can make a dramatic difference in rarity and value.
Today, authentic Paul Newman Daytonas rank among the most sought after vintage Rolex watches ever produced.
Source: monochrome-watches.com
What Makes a Paul Newman Dial Different?
The dial is what separates a Paul Newman Daytona from a standard vintage Daytona. Rolex originally referred to these as exotic dials, and while they were not especially popular when first introduced, they are now among the most desirable dial configurations in the world of watch collecting.
Several distinctive design elements make a Paul Newman dial instantly recognisable:
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Art Deco style numerals within the sub dials.
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Square ended markers rather than the simple baton markers found on standard Daytona dials.
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Crosshair lines running through the centre of each sub dial.
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Contrasting sub dials that create the famous Panda and Reverse Panda appearance.
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A stepped dial construction that adds depth and visual separation between the centre and outer track.
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Red "Daytona" text above the six o'clock register on many references.
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A more decorative and unconventional design compared to standard Daytona dials of the period.
These details may appear subtle at first glance, but they dramatically affect collectability. Two Daytonas with the same reference, case and movement can differ in value by hundreds of thousands, or even millions, simply because one is fitted with an original Paul Newman dial.
The Three Generations of the Rolex Daytona
Although the Paul Newman Daytona belongs to the earliest era of Daytona production, understanding the wider evolution of the collection helps explain its significance. Since its introduction in 1963, the Rolex Daytona has passed through three distinct generations.
Manual-Wind Daytona (1963-1988)
The first generation includes all vintage Daytona references powered by manually wound Valjoux based movements. This period produced the watches that collectors now associate with the Paul Newman name, including references 6239, 6241, 6262, 6263, 6264 and 6265. Production numbers were relatively low, and many examples featured the exotic dials that would later become some of the most valuable Rolex watches ever made.
Zenith Daytona (1988-2000)
In 1988, Rolex introduced the first automatic Daytona models. Rather than developing a movement from scratch, the company modified the renowned Zenith El Primero chronograph calibre to create the Rolex Calibre 4030. These five digit references, particularly the Ref. 16520, helped transform the Daytona into one of the most desirable sports watches on the market.
In-House Daytona (2000-Present)
The third generation arrived in 2000 with the launch of the Rolex Calibre 4130, the brand's first fully in house chronograph movement. Modern six digit Daytona references offer improved reliability, longer power reserves and enhanced manufacturing precision. While contemporary Daytonas remain highly sought after, the early manual wind Paul Newman models continue to occupy a unique place at the top of the vintage Rolex market.
Barrington Watch Winders Insight: The evolution of the Daytona reflects Rolex's continuous pursuit of reliability and precision. While collectors often focus on rare references and movements, understanding the historical context behind each generation can provide a deeper appreciation of what makes vintage Daytonas so special today.
How Paul Newman Made the Daytona Famous
When Rolex introduced the Daytona in the 1960s, it was far from the icon it is today. Sales were modest, and many dealers struggled to attract buyers. Everything changed thanks to Paul Newman.
His connection with the watch began when his wife, Joanne Woodward, gifted him a Rolex Daytona after he developed an interest in motorsport while preparing for the 1969 film Winning. The caseback famously carried the inscription "Drive Carefully Me", a reference to his growing passion for racing.
Several factors helped transform the Daytona into a legend:
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Newman wore his Daytona regularly for decades, both on and off the racetrack.
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His successful racing career gave the watch authentic motorsport credibility.
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Countless photographs showed him wearing the watch during races, interviews and public appearances.
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His personal Ref. 6239 became one of the most recognisable watches in the world.
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Collectors eventually began referring to exotic dial Daytonas as "Paul Newman" models.
By the 1980s and 1990s, demand for these watches had surged among collectors. What was once a relatively overlooked chronograph became one of the most desirable vintage Rolex models ever produced, largely due to its enduring association with Paul Newman.
Paul Newman’s Personal Rolex Daytona Ref. 6239
Among all vintage Rolex watches, none has achieved greater fame than Paul Newman’s own Daytona Ref. 6239. The watch was gifted to him by his wife, Joanne Woodward, during the early years of his racing career and quickly became a constant presence on his wrist. Over time, it evolved from a personal timepiece into one of the most important watches in collecting history.
One of the watch's most famous details is the engraving on the caseback, which reads "Drive Carefully Me". The message reflected Woodward's concern for her husband as he became increasingly involved in competitive motorsport. Decades later, that simple inscription would become one of the most recognisable engravings ever seen on a Rolex.
In the 1980s, Newman gave the watch to James Cox, who was dating his daughter Nell Newman at the time. Cox kept the watch for many years before eventually consigning it for auction. Its reappearance generated enormous interest throughout the watch community, ending years of speculation about the whereabouts of the legendary Daytona.
On 26 October 2017, Phillips sold the watch in New York after an intense bidding battle that lasted around twelve minutes. The final price reached an astonishing $17.75 million, setting a new record for the most expensive wristwatch ever sold at auction at the time.
The sale transformed the vintage Rolex market. While Paul Newman Daytonas were already highly desirable, the record breaking result elevated them to an entirely new level of collectability. Even today, Newman’s Ref. 6239 remains one of the most famous and influential watches ever offered at auction.
The Most Important Paul Newman Daytona References
Rolex Daytona Ref. 6239
Produced from approximately 1963 to 1969, the Ref. 6239 was the first Daytona reference and the model most closely associated with Paul Newman himself. It features a steel tachymeter bezel, pump pushers and the manually wound Valjoux 722 movement. While it is generally considered the most accessible Paul Newman reference, original examples remain highly sought after. Depending on condition, dial configuration and provenance, values typically range from £150,000 to well over £1 million.
Rolex Daytona Ref. 6241
Manufactured during the mid to late 1960s, the Ref. 6241 shares much of its architecture with the 6239 but replaces the steel bezel with a black acrylic insert. This small change gives the watch a more distinctive appearance and contributes to its rarity. Collectors often regard the 6241 as scarcer than the 6239, with market values commonly ranging between £250,000 and £1.5 million.
Rolex Daytona Ref. 6262
Produced for only a brief period between 1970 and 1971, the Ref. 6262 is one of the rarest Paul Newman Daytona references. It introduced the upgraded Valjoux 727 movement while retaining pump pushers and a steel bezel. Due to its short production run, surviving examples are highly desirable and can command prices from £300,000 to well above £1 million.
Rolex Daytona Ref. 6264
The Ref. 6264 was produced alongside the 6262 and combines the improved Valjoux 727 movement with a black acrylic bezel. Its limited production makes it one of the most elusive Paul Newman Daytonas on the market. Exceptional examples frequently exceed £500,000, while particularly rare dial variants can achieve several million pounds at auction.
Rolex Daytona Ref. 6263
For many collectors, the Ref. 6263 represents the ultimate Paul Newman Daytona. Produced from around 1971 until the late 1980s, it introduced screw down chronograph pushers and improved water resistance. The famous Panda and Reverse Panda dial configurations are especially prized. Depending on rarity and condition, values generally range from £400,000 to several million pounds.
Rolex Daytona Ref. 6265
The Ref. 6265 was the final manually wound Daytona reference fitted with a steel bezel. Like the 6263, it used screw down pushers and the Valjoux 727 movement, remaining in production until the late 1980s. Although less frequently discussed than the 6263, it remains a highly collectable vintage Daytona. Current values typically begin around £250,000 and can exceed £1 million for exceptional examples.
Source: monochrome-watches.com
Other Rolex Daytonas Owned by Paul Newman
Although the Ref. 6239 is the watch most closely associated with Paul Newman, it was not the only Daytona he owned. Throughout his life, Newman wore several Daytona references, many of which were gifts from his wife, Joanne Woodward and later became highly significant collector's pieces in their own right.
Daytona Ref. 6263 "Big Red"
One of Newman's most famous later Daytonas was the Ref. 6263, often referred to by collectors as the "Big Red" due to the large red DAYTONA text above the six o'clock sub dial. Featuring a black acrylic bezel, screw down pushers and a black dial with contrasting white registers, it perfectly reflected the sporty character of the Daytona collection. In 2020, Newman's personal example sold at auction for more than $5 million.
Daytona Ref. 16520 Zenith Daytona
The Ref. 16520 marked a new era for Rolex as the first automatic Daytona powered by a modified Zenith El Primero movement. Newman owned a white dial example that was presented to him after being named Rolex Motorsports Man of the Year in 1995. The watch featured a special commemorative engraving on the caseback and was later sold at auction in 2023 for over $1.1 million.
Daytona Ref. 116519 White Gold Daytona
One of the final Daytonas owned by Newman was a white gold Ref. 116519 fitted with a black dial and leather strap. Gifted by Joanne Woodward in 2006, it featured Rolex's in house Calibre 4130 and carried another affectionate engraving: "Drive Very Slowly Joanne". Sold alongside his Zenith Daytona in 2023, it achieved more than $1 million at auction and remains one of the most personal watches connected to Newman’s legacy.
The Most Expensive Paul Newman Daytonas Ever Sold
The market for Paul Newman Daytonas has produced some of the most remarkable auction results in watch collecting history. While many vintage Rolex models achieve impressive prices, watches directly connected to Paul Newman occupy a category of their own. Their combination of rarity, provenance and cultural significance continues to attract intense interest from collectors around the world.
|
Reference |
Auction Year |
Price |
|
6239 |
2017 |
$17.75 million |
|
6263 |
2020 |
$5.47 million |
|
16520 |
2023 |
$1.14 million |
|
116519 |
2023 |
$1.08 million |
The clear standout remains Paul Newman’s personal Ref. 6239, which sold through Phillips in 2017 for $17.75 million. At the time, it became the most expensive wristwatch ever sold at auction and remains the highest priced Rolex in history.
These results demonstrate that provenance can be just as important as rarity. While collectors highly value standard Paul Newman Daytonas, examples owned and worn by Newman himself have reached a level of desirability that few other watches can match.
How Much Is a Paul Newman Daytona Worth Today?
The value of a Paul Newman Daytona varies enormously depending on the reference, dial configuration, originality and provenance. While some examples trade in the low six figures, the rarest and most desirable pieces can sell for several million pounds. In today's market, most authentic Paul Newman Daytonas are worth at least £150,000, with exceptional examples regularly exceeding £1 million.
One of the most important factors affecting value is dial rarity. Certain exotic dial variations were produced in extremely limited numbers and are significantly more desirable than others. Collectors pay substantial premiums for original, untouched dials that retain their correct printing, colour and finish.
Provenance can have an even greater impact on price. A watch with documented ownership history, especially one connected to a notable collector, racing driver or celebrity, will often command a much higher value. Paul Newman's own watches represent the ultimate example of how provenance can transform a valuable vintage Rolex into a record breaking auction piece.
Condition also plays a crucial role. Collectors generally prefer watches with original dials, hands, bezels and cases that have not been heavily restored or polished. Complete sets that include original boxes, papers and supporting documentation are particularly desirable.
As demand for rare vintage Rolex watches remains strong, Paul Newman Daytonas continue to rank among the most valuable and sought after chronographs in the world.
Barrington Watch Winders Insight: When a watch reaches six or seven figure values, preservation becomes just as important as acquisition. Proper storage, careful handling and regular servicing can help protect both the mechanical integrity and long term collectability of a vintage Rolex Daytona.
Protecting and Displaying Collectable WatchesÂ
Collectors fortunate enough to own a vintage Rolex Daytona understand that acquiring the watch is only part of the journey. Preserving its condition, protecting its long term value and displaying it appropriately are equally important considerations. Whether you own a Paul Newman Daytona, another vintage Rolex reference or a growing collection of automatic watches, the right storage and display solutions can help safeguard your investment while allowing you to enjoy your timepieces every day.
Barrington Oxford Single Winder - Green
(The Barrington Oxford Single Winder in Green combines elegant presentation with practical functionality for owners of automatic watches. Designed to accommodate leading brands including Rolex, Omega, Breitling and TAG Heuer, it offers adjustable rotation direction and Turns Per Day settings to suit a wide range of movements. Its ultra quiet Japanese motor and Barrington's Gentle Rotation method help keep watches wound while avoiding unnecessary wear, and the watch always comes to rest in the 12 o'clock position for an attractive display. Compact enough for a desk or shelf, the winder can operate from either batteries or mains power and features the Barrington Jump system, allowing multiple winders to be connected and powered from a single source as a collection grows).
4 Watch Winder
(The Barrington 4 Watch Winder is designed for collectors who own multiple automatic watches and want each piece maintained according to its specific requirements. Featuring four individually programmable rotors, it allows separate Turns Per Day and rotation settings for every watch, making it suitable for a diverse collection that may include Rolex, Omega, Breitling and other leading brands. Housed within an elegant display case with a carbon fibre effect interior, the unit combines practical functionality with sophisticated presentation. Features such as the fingerprint security system, touch screen controls, remote operation, integrated storage drawer and LED lighting enhance the ownership experience, while ultra quiet Japanese motors and Barrington's Gentle Rotation method ensure reliable and discreet operation. For collectors seeking a secure and refined way to store and display several valuable timepieces, the Quad Watch Winder offers an impressive all in one solution).
Barrington Oxford Single Winder - Blue
(The Barrington Oxford Single Winder in Blue offers a stylish and compact solution for keeping an automatic watch wound and ready to wear. Suitable for leading brands including Rolex, Omega, Breitling and TAG Heuer, it provides customisable rotation direction and Turns Per Day settings to accommodate a wide range of movements. Its ultra quiet Japanese motor and Gentle Rotation system help maintain consistent operation while minimising unnecessary stress on the movement, and the watch is always displayed in an elegant 12 o'clock resting position. With the flexibility of battery or mains power and the ability to connect multiple units through Barrington's Jump system, this winder is an excellent choice for both new enthusiasts and experienced collectors).
At Barrington Watch Winders, we design products for enthusiasts who value both functionality and presentation. From precision engineered watch winders to premium storage accessories, our range is created to help collectors care for their watches with confidence. For owners of exceptional timepieces, thoughtful storage is an important part of preserving the legacy and enjoyment of every watch in the collection.
How to Identify a Genuine Paul Newman Daytona
Authenticating a Paul Newman Daytona requires far more than simply spotting a Panda dial. Because these watches can be worth hundreds of thousands or even millions of pounds, they are among the most scrutinised vintage Rolex models in existence. Many watches have been modified over the years with replacement components or aftermarket dials, making expert verification essential.
When assessing a potential Paul Newman Daytona, collectors should pay close attention to the following details:
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The reference number should be one of the recognised Paul Newman references: 6239, 6241, 6262, 6263, 6264 or 6265.
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The dial should feature classic exotic dial characteristics, including Art Deco numerals, square ended markers, contrasting sub dials and crosshair registers.
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The case should match the correct production period and retain well defined original proportions.
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The bezel must correspond to the specific reference, whether steel or black acrylic.
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Serial numbers should align with known production dates.
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Original documentation, service records and provenance can significantly strengthen authenticity.
One of the most common mistakes buyers make is assuming that any vintage Daytona with a contrasting dial is a Paul Newman model. In reality, subtle differences in printing, fonts and dial layout can dramatically affect both authenticity and value. Another frequent issue involves service replacement dials fitted during maintenance, which are genuine Rolex components but considerably less desirable than original period correct dials.
For high value purchases, collectors should always seek an independent expert opinion and request detailed provenance whenever possible. Given the prices involved, thorough due diligence is not optional but essential.
Why Are Paul Newman Daytonas So Valuable?
Few watches combine rarity, historical significance and cultural influence as successfully as the Paul Newman Daytona. While many vintage Rolex models are highly collectable, Paul Newman references occupy a unique position at the very top of the market.
One of the main reasons for their value is rarity. Exotic dial Daytonas were produced in relatively small numbers, and many original examples have been lost, altered or fitted with replacement parts over the decades. As a result, genuinely original watches are increasingly difficult to find.
History also plays a major role. These watches represent an important chapter in both Rolex and motorsport history, dating back to the formative years of the Daytona collection. Their connection to the evolution of one of Rolex's most iconic sports watches adds significant collector appeal.
The association with Paul Newman further elevates their status. Unlike many celebrity watch endorsements, Newman's connection to the Daytona was entirely authentic. He wore the watch regularly throughout his racing career, helping to create one of the strongest links between a public figure and a specific watch model.
Supply remains extremely limited while global demand continues to grow. Serious collectors compete for a shrinking pool of original examples, particularly those with rare dial configurations and documented provenance.
Finally, record breaking auction results have reinforced the Paul Newman Daytona's legendary reputation. High profile sales have attracted attention far beyond the watch community, transforming these watches into symbols of both horological and cultural significance. Together, these factors explain why Paul Newman Daytonas remain among the most valuable vintage wristwatches ever produced.
Conclusion
The Rolex Daytona Paul Newman is far more than a vintage chronograph. It represents a unique combination of motorsport heritage, celebrity provenance and exceptional rarity. From the exotic dial references of the 1960s and 1970s to Paul Newman’s own record breaking Ref. 6239, these watches continue to occupy a special place in the world of horology. Their enduring appeal demonstrates how history, design and storytelling can elevate a watch into a true cultural icon.
For collectors, understanding the differences between references, dial variations and provenance is essential when evaluating a Paul Newman Daytona. Whether you own a vintage Rolex or simply appreciate the history behind these remarkable timepieces, proper care and storage remain important for preserving long term value. At Barrington Watch Winders, we share that passion for fine watchmaking, supporting collectors with precision engineered watch winders, accessories and practical resources designed to help enthusiasts care for their treasured watches.
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