Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo has revealed the highlights of the upcoming Geneva Watch Auction: XVII, which will be available for preview on May 10, followed by the live auction on May 13 and 14 at the esteemed Hôtel La Réserve. This auction will showcase an exquisite selection of timepieces from the 20th and 21st centuries, carefully curated for their exceptional quality, rarity, interest, and overall significance. With approximately 200 watches on offer, Phillips aims to cater to a wide range of collectors, from avid enthusiasts to seasoned connoisseurs.
The auction will feature an impressive array of timepieces from renowned luxury watch brands such as Patek Philippe, Rolex, Vacheron Constantin, Audemars Piguet, and A. Lange & Söhne. One of the highly anticipated highlights is the perpetual calendar chronograph reference 2499 from Patek Philippe, which is considered one of the most revered watches from the latter half of the 20th century. Phillips will present a first-series edition of this iconic timepiece in yellow gold, which comes from the original owner’s family. Additionally, a second-series version in pink gold and a third-series iteration, once owned by Mel Blanc, the legendary voice actor behind Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck, will also be available for collectors to bid on.
Rolex enthusiasts can look forward to the rare reference 6270, a yellow-gold manual Daytona adorned with baguette diamonds and a pavé dial. The auction will also showcase the reference 6541 Milgauss, a timepiece originally crafted for scientists at CERN, complete with its original guarantee, hang tag, chronometer certificate, and preserved in excellent condition. Another notable Rolex piece is the reference 6232 two-counter chronograph in pink gold, which hails from the son of the original owner, adding a touch of personal history to its allure.
Vacheron Constantin’s contribution to the auction includes the 222 “Jumbo” in white gold, a previously unknown timepiece that has the potential to redefine the scholarship in the field. From Audemars Piguet, Phillips will offer an “exceptionally well-preserved” chronograph with full calendar indications in yellow gold, showcasing the brand’s expertise in haute horlogerie. Independent watchmakers will also have their presence felt in the auction, with notable pieces such as the Philippe Dufour Grande & Petite Sonnerie pocket watch N°1, originally crafted for Audemars Piguet in the 1980s, and a Simplicity timepiece in a white gold case. Additionally, the Naissance d’Une Montre 2, an original handmade wristwatch in white gold from master watchmakers Robert Greubel, Stephen Forsey of Greubel Forsey, and Felix Baumgartner and Martin Frei of Urwerk, will be available for discerning collectors to bid on.
In summary, the Geneva Watch Auction: XVII organized by Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo promises to be a meticulously curated event, showcasing a carefully selected collection of extraordinary timepieces from esteemed luxury watch brands and independent watchmakers. With a diverse range of offerings and something for every budget, this auction is poised to attract avid collectors and connoisseurs alike, providing an unparalleled opportunity to acquire rare and exceptional timepieces of unparalleled craftsmanship and horological significance.