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
In the catalogue of the Phillips Hong Kong Sessions, Spring 2025, Online Auction, two timepieces stand out: the Breguet Tourbillon Messidor and the Panerai Lo Scienziato Radiomir Tourbillon GMT. Both watches pay homage to the tourbillon — a mechanism devised to counteract the effects of gravity on a watch's accuracy — yet they interpret this complication through distinct lenses, reflecting each brands' unique philosophies and histories.
Breguet Tourbillon Messidor Ref. 5335
The Breguet Tourbillon Messidor ref. 5335 is a direct descendant of the original tourbillon invented by Abraham-Louis Breguet in 1801. The name "Messidor" commemorates 7 Messidor, Year 9, on the French Revolutionary calendar — the date the original tourbillon patent was granted.
Encased in platinum, the watch measures 40 mm in diameter and 9.7 mm in thickness, embodying the brand's commitment to understated elegance. The sapphire dial offers a transparent view of the skeletonized movement, allowing enthusiasts to admire the intricate handiwork that defines Breguet's legacy. Blued Breguet hands glide over the minimalist display, ensuring timekeeping remains the focal point amidst the mechanical artistry.
At its heart lies the manually wound Calibre 558 SQ2, boasting a 50-hour power reserve. This movement operates at a frequency of 2.5 Hz and comprises 21 jewels, reflecting Breguet's dedication to precision engineering. The tourbillon is prominently positioned at 6 o'clock, serving as both a functional element and a testament to the brand's horological heritage.
Panerai Lo Scienziato Radiomir Tourbillon GMT
The Panerai Lo Scienziato Radiomir Tourbillon GMT PAM00350 draws inspiration from Galileo Galilei, the pioneering Italian scientist whose studies laid the groundwork for modern timekeeping. Introduced in 2010 as part of the "Lo Scienziato" collection, this model showcases Panerai's dedication to blending historical reverence with contemporary innovation.
The watch features a robust 48 mm black ceramic case, a material choice that underscores Panerai's commitment to durability and modern aesthetics. The skeletonized dial reveals the in-house Calibre P.2005/S, a manually wound movement equipped with a tourbillon, GMT function, and an impressive six-day power reserve, powered by three barrels. The tourbillon's unique placement between the 10 and 11 o'clock positions adds a dynamic visual element to the dial.
Additional features include a second time zone indicated by a central GMT hand, a day/night indicator at 3 o'clock, and small seconds at 9 o'clock. The power reserve indicator is conveniently located on the caseback, viewable through the sapphire crystal display. Despite its substantial size, the use of lightweight ceramic ensures the watch remains comfortable on the wrist, complemented by a brown leather strap that adds a touch of vintage flair.
Contrasting Philosophies: Tradition vs. Innovation
At first glance, both timepieces celebrate the tourbillon complication, but their executions reveal contrasting philosophies. Breguet's Tourbillon Messidor is a homage to classical watchmaking, emphasizing traditional craftsmanship and timeless design. Its transparent dial and elegantly skeletonized movement invite connoisseurs to appreciate the meticulous artistry that has defined Breguet for centuries.
In contrast, Panerai's Lo Scienziato Radiomir Tourbillon GMT embodies a fusion of historical inspiration and modern technology. The use of advanced materials like ceramic and the incorporation of multiple complications reflect Panerai's pursuit of innovation while honoring its heritage. The watch's bold design and substantial presence cater to those who appreciate contemporary aesthetics coupled with technical prowess.
Why Collectors Should Take Note
The Breguet Tourbillon Messidor appeals to purists who value the lineage and historical significance of the tourbillon. Its classic design and connection to Abraham-Louis Breguet's original invention make it a coveted piece for those who appreciate the roots of horological complications.
On the other hand, the Panerai Lo Scienziato Radiomir Tourbillon GMT attracts collectors drawn to innovation and bold design. Its combination of a tourbillon, GMT function, and modern materials like ceramic showcases Panerai's ability to blend tradition with cutting-edge technology, appealing to those who seek a statement piece with technical depth.
Both the Breguet Tourbillon Messidor and the Panerai Lo Scienziato Radiomir Tourbillon GMT offer unique interpretations of the tourbillon complication.
Whether one's preference leans towards classical elegance or contemporary innovation, these timepieces exemplify the diverse landscape of high-end watchmaking, providing distinct options that reflect one's individual tastes and appreciation for horological artistry.
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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