Sotheby's New York: Important Watches & Clocks - New York, 27 October 2010
Sotheby’s New York sale of Important Watches & Clocks on 27 October is a well-rounded auction that offers notable wristwatches and pocket watches, important pieces made for the Chinese Market, and unique collections that feature modern watches, ladies’ pendant watches, and enamel form watches. The sale will be on view beginning 23 October, alongside highlights from Sotheby’s November auction of Important Watches in Geneva, and is estimated at $3.4/4.9 million.
The auction is highlighted by Property of a Trust, including An Important Ormolu, Silver Mounted and Colored Glass Center Seconds, Four Tune Musical Automaton Table Clock, with Quarter Striking, made for the Chinese Market, late-18th century, formerly in the Collection of Gustav Loup, Geneva (est. $500/800,000). The design of this magnificent clock combines the creativity, opulence and novelty that characterize many of the finest clocks destined for use by the Chinese emperors of the 18th century.
The wristwatches on offer feature several notable pieces by Patek Philippe, led by A Fine and Rare 18k Yellow Gold Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Wristwatch with Moon-Phases and Register, retailed by Tiffany & Co., 1968 Ref. 2499J, Third Series, which is being offered by the original owner (est. $250/350,000). Produced from 1950 until 1985, Ref. 2499 is recognized as one of the most important wristwatches made by Patek Philippe. With only 349 pieces made in total, or an average of nine per year, this is an extremely rare piece made with incredible attention to detail.
The sale offers property from several notable and distinctive collections. Property of a Private Collector offers a charming selection of enamel form watches, including A Fine and Rare Gold and Enamel Butterfly-Form Musical Snuff Box with Watch, made for the Chinese Market, Case by Georges Reymond, circa 1820 by Piguet & Meylan (pictured left, est. US$100/150,000). This beautifully colored and detailed box plays music on demand, and the butterfly’s wings open to reveal a watch and a snuff compartment on either side.
