Sotheby’s Important Watches auction in New York produced more than $US14 million ($AU20.8 million) in sales, headlined by Patek Phillipe and Rolex pieces.
The 7 December sales sold 91 per cent of items, with solid performances from independent watchmakers such as F.P. Journe, Richard Mille, and Audemars Piguet.
The highest profile sale was a 1950 Patek Philippe (Reference 1518) pink gold perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch with moon phases.
The watch was previously unknown, belonging to the Kaplan family since 1952, and was sold for $US1.5 million ($AU2.24 million).
Also of interest was a 14-carat yellow gold Rolex Dayton Paul Newman ‘John Player Special’ (Reference 6241).
The watch also returned $US1.5 million ($AU2.24 million), more than double its pre-auction high estimate. The piece was a ‘surprise discovery’ during the settlement of a family estate.
Geoff Hess, head of watches at Sotheby’s, said demand remains healthy among watch collectors.
“The enduring strength of trophy vintage pieces was unmistakably evident, accompanied by a noteworthy demand for newly discovered treasures, reflecting the enthusiasm of our discerning clientele for fresh-to-market watches, which was felt in the packed room today,” he said.
The auction also included the first part of a 60-piece collection owned by Alan Bloore, an Australian sportsman and sailor.
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