Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo is thrilled to welcome you to The Hong Kong Sessions, Spring 2025, online auction, running from 12:00 PM HKT, Wednesday, 19 March, to 2:00 PM HKT, Wednesday, 26 March. Featuring more than 120 different high-end luxury wristwatches, the sale covers everything from A. Lange & Söhne and F.P. Journe to Audemars Piguet and Patek Philippe, including all the watches featured below.
– By Logan Baker
For many collectors, the world of horology begins — and often stays — on the wrist. Yet, to fully appreciate the artistry and innovation of watchmaking, one must look beyond modern wristwatches to the rich history of pocket watches and clocks. These timepieces not only showcase some of the most intricate craftsmanship and engineering feats but also tell stories of bygone eras, technological advancements, and the evolution of timekeeping itself.
Whether it’s a pocket watch that once graced the waistcoats of aristocrats, a table clock designed as a functional work of art, or a wall clock that embodies the DNA of an iconic wristwatch, these pieces offer collectors an opportunity to expand their horizons. They serve as tangible links to horological heritage, blending form and function in ways that wristwatches alone cannot.
In this article, we explore some of the most fascinating pocket watches and clocks included in the Phillips Hong Kong Sessions, Spring 2025, Online Auction — exceptional creations that deserve a place in any serious watch collection.
Lot 8019: A 1908 Patek Philippe Pocket Watch in 18k Pink Gold with Enamel 24-Hour Dial, Retailed by Gondolo & Labouriau
Estimate: HKD $80,000 - 150,000
Founded in 1872, the Brazilian retailer Gondolo & Labouriau played a pivotal role in the history of watchmaking, at one point accounting for nearly a third of Patek Philippe’s total production sales. This partnership was further cemented in 1902 when Patek Philippe officially registered the Chronometro Gondolo model. Over the next 25 years, the Gondolo name became synonymous with exceptional pocket watches and, later, wristwatches, meticulously crafted exclusively for this retailer.
The dials of these timepieces showcased a diverse range of styles, featuring Roman, Arabic, and Breguet numerals, all prominently bearing the Chronometro Gondolo signature. Initially positioned at the top of the enamel dial above the Patek Philippe name, this signature was later adapted into an arched format above the subsidiary seconds dial.
The present timepiece stands out with several distinctive technical features uncommon among other Patek Philippe pocket watches. It is equipped with a stem-wound movement, ratchet wheels on the mainspring barrel arbor, wolf-tooth winding, and a square indentation for barrel spring release. Additionally, it features a 9K gold wheel train, a straight-line mustache lever escapement with a bimetallic compensation balance, a Breguet balance spring, and a cam wheel or snail cam regulator for precise adjustments. Further enhancing its rarity, the main bridge is finely engraved with the watchmaker’s initials and the manufacture date, “PAT. 13 Jan 1891.”
This watch also exemplifies the rare 24-hour dials associated with the Chronometro Gondolo line. Patek Philippe produced two distinct styles: one displaying a 1-24 format and another with a 0-23 configuration, marked by a red or black “0” at the 12 o’clock position. These watches operate at half the speed of a standard movement, allowing them to complete a full day-night cycle over 24 hours.
Preserved in excellent original condition, this pocket watch features a striking black and red Breguet 24-hour dial, further elevating its desirability. A rare and historically significant piece, it presents collectors with a unique opportunity to own a timepiece that embodies Patek Philippe’s enduring legacy, spanning over a century.
Lot 8020: A 1907 Patek Philippe Pocket Watch in 18k Pink Gold with Enamel 24-Hour Dial, Retailed by Gondolo & Labouriau
Estimate: HKD $80,000 - 150,000
When it comes to watch clubs, few are as legendary as the Brazilian “Gondolo Gang." Instantly recognizable by their signature sombrero hats emblazoned with "PATEK," these gentlemen, united by their passion for exceptional timepieces, fine wine, and cigars, formed an exclusive circle of 180 members at its inception. As pioneers of the "club watch" concept, the Gondolo Gang set the standard with their iconic Chronometro Gondolo pocket watch.
The collection takes its name from Gondolo & Labouriau, a renowned Patek Philippe retailer in Rio de Janeiro. From 1872 to 1927, their collaboration with Patek Philippe produced a remarkable legacy. The Gondolo watches were introduced through an innovative lottery-based sales system tailored to the Brazilian market. Each timepiece, valued at 740 Francs, was offered to club members via a structured payment plan: members contributed 10 Francs weekly over 74 weeks until the watch was fully paid. Each week, a draw determined one lucky member who received their watch for free, while subsequent winners paid progressively fewer installments. This system ensured that every participant ultimately owned a timepiece, often at a more favorable price than its retail value.
The present example, a 20-lignes Chronometro Gondolo, is housed in an elegant pink gold case and features a rare, exceptionally preserved enamel dial. Distinguished by its striking red markers at 6, 12, 18, and 24, this pocket watch stands apart from its counterparts.
According to our research, only 12 examples with this unique configuration are known to exist. Having remained in a private collection for the past seven years since its last market appearance, this Chronometro Gondolo is accompanied by an Extract from the Archives, confirming its manufacture date in 1907.
Lot 8021: A 1908 Patek Philippe Pocket Watch in Silver and Pink Gold with Enamel Dial, Retailed by Gondolo & Labouriau
Estimate: HKD $45,000 - 90,000
Renowned for producing some of the world’s most exquisite pocket watches, the Patek Philippe Chronometro Gondolo carries a rich and fascinating legacy. Named after a distinguished retailer in Rio de Janeiro, this collection was born from a partnership between Patek Philippe and Gondolo & Labouriau, spanning from 1872 to 1927.
Initially dedicated to pocket watches, the collection expanded in the 1920s to include wristwatches, catering to the growing demand for Swiss-made timepieces. Before Patek Philippe's global rise to prominence, their Brazilian partner pioneered the "Gondolo Gang," an innovative marketing initiative that introduced a new generation of gentlemen to the idea of watches as valuable investments.
In 1902, Patek Philippe introduced a series of pocket watches engraved with "Chronometro Gondolo" on the cuvette and, in some cases, on the dial. The present timepiece is powered by the esteemed cal. 20”’ movement, celebrated for its precision and craftsmanship. Beautifully preserved, the movement exhibits a charming layer of patina that speaks to its age and history.
Housed in a rare silver case — an uncommon choice for Patek Philippe, as most of their watches were crafted in 18k gold — this timepiece stands out for its distinctive contrast. In these rare instances, pink gold was often used for the crown, pendant neck, lip, and hinges, enhancing the elegance of the silver case. Over time, an attractive patina has developed, lending the watch a unique character. The crisp white enamel dial, complemented by a small seconds sub-dial and striking gold hands, showcases the refined aesthetics and meticulous execution of this exceptional piece.
Preserved in excellent overall condition, this watch retains its original guilloché caseback, as confirmed by an Extract from the Archives. A rare and remarkable collector’s piece, it offers a unique opportunity to own a tangible piece of horological history — one that epitomizes the elegance and craftsmanship of Patek Philippe.
Lot 8065: A Circa 2019 MB&F × L'Epée 1839 T-Rex Clock
Estimate: HKD $65,000 - 120,000
Co-created by MB&F and L'Epée 1839, the T-Rex debuted as a one-of-a-kind creation for Only Watch 2019, where it was met with great enthusiasm from collectors. Following its success, the timepiece was introduced into a limited production run with three distinct iterations. The present example, reference 76.6008/140, features a captivating blue hand-blown Murano glass dial, enhancing its striking aesthetic.
Designed with remarkable attention to detail, the clock’s structure is inspired by the actual skeleton of a Tyrannosaurus Rex. Its legs are meticulously modeled using 3D scans of fossilized T-Rex bones, with alternating sandblasted and polished finishes that add a sense of realism to the biomechanical sculpture.
Atop the dinosaur-like legs, time is elegantly displayed through two slim steel hands extending outward from the center of the suspended Murano glass dial. The deep, inky dial evokes the imagery of a sunken black hole, immersing the viewer in a time-warping journey back to the age of dinosaurs — an imaginative leap into Max Büsser’s visionary universe.
Powered by the manual-winding calibre 1855, the clock beats at a frequency of 18,000 vph and boasts an impressive 8-day power reserve. Time-setting and winding are facilitated by the accompanying key, which operates on the barrel axis at the back of the clock.
The T-Rex table clock is available in three mesmerizing variations, each featuring Murano glass dials in deep blue, green, or red, with each colorway strictly limited to 100 pieces. The present example, T-Rex Blue, is offered in excellent overall condition and is accompanied by its full set of accessories—a rare opportunity for collectors to acquire an extraordinary fusion of horology and artistic craftsmanship.
Lot 8117: A 1969 Patek Philippe Gilt Bronze Solar-Powered Cartel Clock in Louis XV Style
Estimate: HKD $48,000 - 96,000
Paying homage to the Louis XV cartel clocks that gained prominence in the 18th century, Patek Philippe introduced its own interpretation in the 1960s, incorporating subtle yet meaningful innovations. Long before Patek Philippe was founded, these exquisite cartel clocks adorned the homes of aristocrats and nobles, celebrated for their delicate sculpting and intricate engravings.
The present reference 812 exemplifies Patek Philippe's seamless fusion of tradition and modern technology. While 18th-century cartel clocks required manual winding via a key, this model features a pioneering photoelectric cell on the front, which powers an accumulator that in turn winds the mechanical movement. This forward-thinking design enables the clock to function continuously without the need for frequent winding, showcasing Patek Philippe’s ingenuity.
The enamel dial is equally captivating, adorned with an elegant cursive signature and framed by Roman hour markers and Arabic minute indices — a refined nod to the classic design elements of 18th-century cartel clocks.
A rarity in the market, this exceptional clock remains in very good overall condition. Having last appeared nearly a decade ago at the inaugural Phillips watches auction, it has since been meticulously preserved in a private collection. This is a unique opportunity for collectors to acquire a remarkable piece that bridges the artistry of the past with the innovation of the modern era.
Lot 8118: A Circa 2016 Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Wall Clock
Estimate: HKD $100,000 - 200,000
In recognition of the pivotal role the perpetual calendar played for Audemars Piguet during the quartz crisis, the brand introduced the Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Wall Clock in 2016 as a tribute.
Modeled after the wristwatch reference 26574ST.OO.1220ST.01, this clock faithfully replicates the intricate design and functionality of its wristwatch counterpart. Powered by a quartz movement, it features a fully functional perpetual calendar complication, displaying hours, minutes, day, date, month, moon phase, leap year, and even a weekly indication. Adjustments are seamlessly managed via a user-friendly LCD display on the caseback — an elegant solution that underscores Audemars Piguet’s commitment to precision and innovation.
A rare and coveted collector’s piece, this well-preserved Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Wall Clock presents a unique opportunity for enthusiasts to own a distinctive timekeeping masterpiece, one that embodies the spirit of Audemars Piguet’s legendary craftsmanship.
Lot 8119: A Circa 2000s Van Cleef & Arpels Triple Calendar Desk Clock
Estimate: HKD $30,000 - 50,000
Beyond their exquisite jewelry and wristwatches, Van Cleef & Arpels has a rich history of crafting elegant and practical desk clocks, seamlessly blending artistry with functionality. Unlike conventional time-only clocks from other brands, this remarkable timepiece from La Collection features a quartz movement with a triple calendar complication, displaying the date, day, and moon phases. Adding to its charm, the calendar is written in French, paying homage to the brand’s heritage.
Encased in a beautifully designed 14cm two-tone brass case, the clock showcases a striking stepped bezel, where the white metal elements create depth and contrast. The gilt-accented registers further enhance its sophisticated aesthetic, harmonizing perfectly with the overall design.
A rare find in the market, this clock remains in honest condition, exhibiting signs of wear and appealing aging marks on the case that attest to its history and character. An exceptional piece for collectors, it embodies the timeless elegance and craftsmanship that define Van Cleef & Arpels.
You can view the complete catalog for the Phillips Hong Kong Sessions, Spring 2025, Online Auction, right here.
About Phillips In Association With Bacs & Russo
The team of specialists at PHILLIPS Watches is dedicated to an uncompromised approach to quality, transparency, and client service. Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo holds the world record for the most successful watch auction, with its Geneva Watch Auction: XIV having realized $74.5 million in 2021. Over the course of 2021 and 2022, the company sold 100% of the watches offered, a first in the industry, resulting in the highest annual total in history across all the auction houses at $227 million.
About Logan Baker
Logan has spent the past decade reporting on every aspect of the watch business. He joined Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo at the start of 2023 as the department's Senior Editorial Manager. He splits his time between New York and Geneva.
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