Watches

When the Royal Oak 15000 was launched in 1995, it was the first 33 mm model with a mechanical self-winding calibre. In the promotional brochures of the time it was described as an “intermediate size”, making it suitable for both women and men. This model remained in the catalogue in different variations of materials and dials for more than ten years. At the upcoming sale, the Royal Oak with reference number 15000BA will be offered in yellow gold with a characteristic dial in a tapestry pattern (estimate: €16,000–22,000). 

The Rolex Day-Date is often dubbed the “president’s watch” because it has been worn be numerous presidents, statesmen and leaders over the years. Its combination of great craftsmanship, timeless design and practical functionality make it particularly popular and one of the best known wristwatches in the world. As a high-quality version in yellow gold with diamond trimming on the bevel and the black dial, an extravagant and luxurious Day-Date will be called up as reference number 18078 in May (estimate: €10,000–12,000). 

The Swiss watch brand F. P. Journe designs its sophisticated watches according to the motto of Invenit et Fecit (He invented and built it) to express the fact that the company builds its models entirely on its own. Therefore the Geneva-based enterprise produces only a small quantity of its extraordinary collector’s items. In May two of its rare watches from the exclusive Black Label edition with movements made of 18-carat rosé gold will be called up. A masterpiece of haute horlogerie is the Chronometre Optimum (estimate: €90,000–120,000). The chronograph is distinguished by its exceptional precision and innovative technology. Thanks to its great complexity, this watch is considered a rare and coveted collector’s item. The Octa UTC is the ideal model for jet setters: it shows two time zones simultaneously (estimate: €50,000–70,000). What’s more, the luxurious watch has an extraordinarily long power reserve of up to 120 hours. Here F. P. Journe combines functionality and luxury at a state-of-the-art level. 

The Geneva-based, long-established company Patek Philippe is synonymous with timeless watch models that are invariably very popular among collectors. The Retrograde Perpetual Calendar with reference number 5496P has a rare and technologically sophisticated retrograde data display on whose curved scale the pointer automatically jumps back to “1” at the end of the month (estimate: €30,000–50,000). This exclusive platinum edition offers special robustness and durability – values which collectors generally associate with Patek Philippe. The timeless Calatrava stands for purism, here with reference number 5196G-001 in white gold (estimate: €10,000–15,000). This watch is an homage to the iconic and legendary Patek Philippe reference 96, the first Calatrava from 1932. Among connoisseurs it has been considered – then as now – a perfect “dress watch” for special occasions.

Further popular and timeless classic watches by renowned manufacturers complete the high-quality offerings in this segment.