The Phillips Geneva Auction recently showcased exceptional watches, including Audemars Piguet and Cartier models. These timepieces, estimated up to CHF 20,000, captivated collectors with their unique history and design.
Audemars Piguet Pocket Watch Retailed by Cartier
Released around 1946, this ultrathin yellow gold pocket watch is a Bauhaus-style piece from Audemars Piguet, retailed by Cartier. Engraved as a gift to David Sarnoff, it celebrated his 40 years in broadcasting.
- Estimate: CHF 2,000 - 4,000
- Sold for CHF 27,940
Cartier Art Deco Pocket Watch
Dating back to circa 1925, this yellow gold Cartier watch features blue enamel and sapphire cabochon buttons. Sold by Cartier's creative Paris division, it was designed for evening bags and pockets.
- Estimate: CHF 8,000 - 16,000
- Sold for CHF 30,480
Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Ref. 14790ST
This 1997 Royal Oak in a 36 mm steel case features a sapphire blue dial, known among collectors as "Yves Klein." The dial was reportedly added post-manufacture.
- Estimate: CHF 12,000 - 18,000
- Sold for CHF 38,100
Vacheron Constantin Ref. 33503
This 1977 model is the only known example in white gold, with a fabric-like bracelet texture echoed on the bezel, adorned with diamonds and onyx.
- Estimate: CHF 10,000 - 20,000
- Sold for CHF 40,640
Piaget Ref. 91103
Around 2000, Piaget created this custom white gold watch with a diamond center dial and emerald hour markers, making it a rarity due to the use of fragile emeralds.
- Estimate: CHF 10,000 - 20,000
- Sold for CHF 48,260
Breguet Souscription "Ore Saltanti"
This 1988 yellow gold Breguet watch, number 24 of 50, features a "jumping hour" complication and was exclusive to the Italian market.
- Estimate: CHF 8,000 - 16,000
- Sold for CHF 50,800
Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Ref. 1510 Zephyr
Released around 1968, this 34.5 mm yellow gold Rolex features a textured bezel and bracelet, reminiscent of Audemars Piguet's Frosted gold finish, and bears a unique inventory number.
- Estimate: CHF 10,000 - 20,000
- Sold for CHF 60,960
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the highest selling watch at the Phillips Geneva Auction?
The Rolex Oyster Perpetual Date Ref. 1510 Zephyr sold for CHF 60,960, making it the highest-selling watch at the auction.
Were any watches sold under their estimate?
All watches mentioned exceeded their estimates, with significant differences between expected and final sale prices.
What makes the Piaget Ref. 91103 special?
The Piaget Ref. 91103 is noted for its rare use of emeralds, which are typically too fragile for intricate watch designs.