Christie’s Hong Kong Announces IMPORTANT WATCHES LIVE AUTUMN AUCTION

A Timeless Curation of Masterworks Across Eras

Jewellery, Watches & Handbags

Hong Kong APAC 26 October 2023

Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, 26 November 2023

Live Auction | 146 lots | Total Low Estimate: HK$123,268,000 / US$15,408,500

Hong Kong – On 26 November, Christie’s Hong Kong will present the Important Watches Live Autumn Auction at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre, featuring a diverse curation of exceptional timepieces for watch collectors across generations. Comprising 146 lots and with a total low estimate of HK$123,268,000 / US$15,408,500, this remarkable auction will be held alongside the preeminent single-owner sale of The OAK Collection Part 1, announced in September, further enhancing Christie’s outstanding offering of watches this season in Hong Kong.

Highlights of the Important Watches Live Auction include two Patek Philippe wristwatches – one manufactured in 1950, the other in circa 2021 – which both showcase iconic complications made famous by the brand. Firstly, an extraordinary vintage pink gold reference 1518, the ancestor of all Patek Philippe perpetual calendar chronographs, and, secondly, an impressive contemporary pink gold World Time Minute Repeating reference 5531R. The latter’s dial is exquisitely decorated with a view of the Lavaux Vineyards on the shores of Lake Geneva, created in the centuries-old technique of cloisonne enamel – an art that has enjoyed a renaissance under the patronage of Patek Philippe. Both wristwatches exemplify the brand's unwavering dedication to excellence, innovation, and the preservation of horological artistry.

Furthermore, Christie’s Hong Kong is honored to present a very rare Philippe Dufour Simplicity in 18k pink gold, Simplicity is considered by many collectors to be among the most superb pieces of horology ever made, beautifully displaying the finest finishing techniques in a straight forward time-only presentation. For astute collectors lucky enough to own one of his watches, most would consider it the pinnacle of their collection and it would be the one piece to remain if all others had to go. Christie’s Hong Kong has the privilege to be offering one of the most superb examples of watchmaking by a living legend, especially in the desirable pink gold case and silver guilloché dial.

Alexandre Bigler, Senior Vice President and Head of Watches, Christie’s Asia Pacific, commented: "Demand for watches in Asia Pacific continues to soar, with the region contributing close to 50% of Christie's global watches sales in the first half of 2023. To celebrate the deep passion held for horological masterworks, we have carefully curated this sale to include the finest timepieces for watch enthusiasts in the region and worldwide. From seasoned collectors to those new to the field, we look forward to convening for this magnificent season for watches in Hong Kong, where masterpieces by renowned watchmakers such as Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Rolex, and Richard Mille will be showcased.”

Hong Kong Important Watches Autumn Live Auction - Various Owners

About Christie’s

Founded in 1766, Christie’s is a world-leading art and luxury business with a physical presence in 46 countries throughout the Americas, Europe, Middle East, and Asia Pacific, and flagship   international sales hubs  in New York, London, Hong Kong, Paris and Geneva. Renowned and trusted for our expert live and online-only auctions, as well as bespoke Private Sales, Christie’s unparalleled network of specialists offers our clients a full portfolio of  global services, including art appraisal, art financing, international real estate and education. Christie’s  auctions span more than  80 art and luxury categories, at price points ranging from $500 to over $100 million. Christie’s has sold 7 of the 10 most important single-owner collections in history, achieved the world record price for an artwork at auction, launched the first  fully on-chain auction platform dedicated to exceptional NFT art and manages an investment fund to support innovative startups in the art market. Christie’s is also committed to advancing  responsible culture  throughout its business and communities worldwide. To learn more, browse, bid, discover, and join us for the best of art and luxury at christies.com or by downloading Christie’s apps.

* Please note when quoting estimates above that other fees will apply in addition to the hammer price - see Section D of the Conditions of Sale at the back of the sale catalogue. *Estimates do not include buyer’s premium. Sales totals are hammer price plus buyer’s premium.