Lot 81: A Circa 1968 Universal Genève Exotic Tri-Compax Ref. 881101/03
Estimate: HKD $120,000 - 200,000
Gertrude Wong, Head of Sale, Specialist
I have always been a fan of Universal Geneve, these chronograph from the late 60s wears with charm that no modern chronograph can give you. It just has a completely different language, the case, the thickness, the weight. I particularly love the playfulness of the Exotic Tri-Compax. There is a lot going on here on this slate grey variant, bold with colors yet it manages to be highly legible. The outer ring is in a stark white with bright blue divisions that matches perfectly with its wide hands. The red accents for the calendar and chronograph hands can be easily spotted at a glance. Whats more important is the state of preservation of this watch, it is paired with the best bracelet combo ever, the Gay Frères bracelet! This is a watch that I would love to put on my wrist everyday.
Lot 25: A Circa 1966 Rolex GMT-Master Ref. 1675
Estimate: HKD $160,000 - 320,000
Zi-Yong Ho, Senior International Specialist
It's no secret that I am a big fan of Rolex GMT watches, and this piece absolutely blew my mind! This ref. 1675 is one of the most beautiful ones I've come across in a long while. It boasts a robust case with strong bevels that collectors covet. The standout feature for me is the breathtaking tropical dial in a deep caramel hue that's simply mesmerizing. A truly worthy piece that demands a fierce battle to secure at auction!
Lot 40: A Circa 1970 Seiko Astronomical Observatory Chronometer
Estimate: HKD $160,000 - 310,000
Alvin Lau, Specialist
When it comes to Japanese watchmaking, Seiko has held an undisputed status since the 20th century. While the West traditionally dominated the watch industry, Seiko changed the game by inventing the first quartz watch, which nearly revolutionized the entire industry.
But they didn’t stop there. Seiko took a deep dive into perfecting mechanical movements, showcasing the Japanese philosophy of achieving the highest quality craftsmanship. This lot is arguably one of the most iconic pieces that marks the beginning of this incredible journey. Even after the Neuchâtel Observatory stopped its chronometry contests in 1968, Seiko continued submitting their movements for certification as observatory chronometers. This particular example is one of just 226 certified movements produced within three years.
Housed in an 18k yellow gold case with a unique linen texture, this particular watch was even on public display at The Seiko Museum from June to August 2014 after servicing. Today, the Seiko brand is synonymous with Japanese watchmaking, perfectly showcasing their expertise and reliability in creating incredibly accurate movements for years to come.
Lot 87 + Lot 108
Estimate: HKD $1,000,000 - 2,000,000; HKD $15,000 - 45,000
Daniel Sum, Consultant, Shanghai
Where do I start?! This is so difficult! But after much deliberation, from the Toki Auction: I have settled on two: Lot 87 the first series 3970 and Lot 108 the Otsuka Lotec.
Ok, so lot 87 is a 3970 which most of you will say “easy choice” to, but it’s an easy choice because it’s also the most obvious. The 3970 reference is perhaps one of the more “affordable” vintages from the Patek Philippe legendary Perpetual Chrono lineage and this one is right up there as one to own and keep. Why? Because it’s from the first series with an estimated production of only 100 pieces, this being the 5th one ever to be produced. But then throw in the fact it has the papers and box and it’s now just gone and become ten times rarer But rare is not enough. What about the quality? It’s there. Preserved immaculately, for those seriously contemplating whether to go for it, I ask, “find me another!"
My second pick from the Toki auction is more fun, Lot 108, the Otsuka Lotec. This makes my list because it’s just fun and as a concept, and I find it very well executed. It just gives me the whole Japanese Manga 80s vibes - I can imagine Kira Yamato wearing it while he is piloting Strike Freedom Gundam or Shotaro Kaneda wearing it riding his motorcycle – UBER COOL!
Lot 60: A Circa 1926 Breguet Digital Pocket Watch
Estimate: HKD $150,000 - 320,000
Yunyi Xu, Cataloguer
The 1920s is a period of unparalleled creativity – a period that we always go back to for inspiration in contemporary design. The present pocket watch is an outstanding example of aesthetic ingenuity from the Art Deco era. What I love about this Breguet creation is the simplicity and uncommon digital time display of a pocket watch from about a century ago. With its special Japanese provenance, this pocket watch will indeed be a “guiding star” for its collector.