Specialists' Picks: The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XIX

Specialists' Picks: The Hong Kong Watch Auction: XIX

Selects from the Hong Kong Watch Auction: XIX.

Selects from the Hong Kong Watch Auction: XIX.

Lot 848: A 1954 Patek Philippe Ref. 2552 With Tiffany & Co. Signature

Estimate: HKD $150,000 - 250,000

Gertrude Wong, Head of Sale, Specialist

Lot 848: A 1954 Patek Philippe Ref. 2552 With Tiffany & Co. signature. Estimate: HKD $150,000 - 250,000

I have always been drawn to the case design of the 2552. The Disco Volante crafted by Wegner captures the mid-century elegance and spirt perfectly. An exquisite double-signed example blessed with the Tiffany & Co. Signature, the dial of this ref. 2552 has aged with the most beautiful warm patina that gradates from light to dark. Preserved with its inventory codes on its case and hallmarks, the Tiffany & Co. bracelet further elevates the charm of this already perfect timepiece.

Lot 978: A Circa 2020 Richard Mille RM020 AI RG Pocket Watch

Estimate: HKD $600,000 - 1,200,000

Zi-Yong Ho, Senior International Specialist

 

Lot 978: A circa 2020 Richard Mille RM020 AI RG Pocket Watch. Estimate: HKD $600,000 - 1,200,000

I am in awe of the specifications of the Richard Mille pocket watch! It is the first pocket watch to use a baseplate made of carbon nanofiber, originally utilized in US Air Force jets. The tourbillon escapement is driven by a double-winding barrel with a 10-day power reserve. Further enhancing the RM 020 tourbillon pocket watch is a titanium watch chain featuring a quick attach/release mechanism that allows it to multitask as a pendulette with the addition of a desk stand. A superbly cool modern pocket watch to own!

Lot 900: A Circa 2024 Unique Holthinrichs Ornament Nouveau

Estimate: In excess of HKD 170,000

Yunyi Xu, Cataloguer

Lot 900: A Circa 2024 Unique Holthinrichs Ornament Nouveau. Estimate: In excess of HKD 170,000

I first saw an image of this watch and was immediately drawn to the unusual case shape and texture. Initially, I thought it was a textured stone material, until realizing that it’s a 3-D printed titanium case. Fitted with a brown Hornback alligator strap, the watch gives off a gothic sculptural appearance which I find appealing. What’s more intriguing is the domed crystal that transforms to a smoke-back hue under UV light, giving the dial an “eclipse” effect under various lighting. Making its debut appearance at auction, Holthinrichs Watches created this unique Art Nouveau inspired Ornament Nouveau for the 11th anniversary of The Lavish Attic – a fascinating timepiece not to be missed by both new and seasoned collectors.

Lot 878: A Circa 1974 Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 'Red Khanjar' 

Estimate: HKD $2,300,000 - 4,600,000

Alvin Lau, Specialist

Lot 878: A Circa 1974 Rolex Cosmograph Daytona 'Red Khanjar' Estimate: HKD $2,300,000 - 4,600,000

The Khanjar really holds a special place for Rolex collectors, especially when it comes with royal provenance. The red Khanjar symbolizes the brave battles fought by Omanis to reclaim their land from foreign invaders. These watches were often gifts from Sultan Qaboos bin Said Al Said to important generals or friends. For these significant occasions, the Sultan specially ordered some dials from Rolex with modifications solely to these early examples, including moving the “Rolex Oyster” logo up to make room for the Khanjar emblem.

To date, only four yellow gold Red Khanjar 6265 examples are known, and they all share similar features and very close serial numbers. This particular watch is preserved in stunning condition, with barely any polishing marks and a crisp "Asprey" engraving on the case back.

Originally sold in 2016, the owner has kept it untouched in a safe all this time. After eight years, we’re truly honored to have the chance to offer this remarkable piece again!

Lot 997 + Lot 1012

Estimate: HKD $360,000 - 720,000; HKD $1,600,000 - 3,200,000

Daniel Sum, Consultant, Shanghai

 

For the lady collectors out there, or those looking for a gift for their loved one, you can’t go wrong with the Patek Philippe 7175R. Having seen it in the wild, it is truly beautiful as it is elegant. The dial, with its moonphase display, has the perfect hue to make it visually interesting, without catching the eye too much. The diamonds around the bezel add a touch of flair without being rude. And it isn’t just about looks with the 7175R, it’s also a watch with serious substance, housing the world timer complication developed by Louis Cottier that has now in many ways become synonymous with the brand.

You also can’t go wrong with classics and the Patek Philippe 1463 “Tasti Tondi” is without a classic. It’s one of those classics that wins numerous Oscar awards, but this example is in simply superb condition. Coming close to being 70 years old, this particular example could pass off as a new watch, such is the quality. And if that wasn’t enough to get the juices going, only 61 pieces have come to market, making it extremely rare.