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London Watch Auction Sets New Records with Iconic Brands and Rare Timepieces
BY ALBERT CHEN
Bonhams‘ highly anticipated Fine Watches sale proved to be a landmark event, drawing collectors and enthusiasts from across the globe. The auction generated over £1.6 million ($2.14 million) in total sales, showcasing an extraordinary array of horological masterpieces from legendary brands including F.P. Journe, Patek Philippe, Cartier, Rolex, and more.
The sale highlighted both vintage rarities and contemporary marvels, cementing its reputation as one of the most significant watch auctions of the year.
Top Honor Goes to F.P. Journe’s Masterpiece
The evening’s crown jewel was a breathtaking F.P. Journe Chronomètre à Résonance (circa 2021). Crafted in platinum, this manual wind dual-time wristwatch features innovative dual escapements, a power reserve indicator, and a hacking seconds function—attributes that exemplify haute horology craftsmanship.
The watch commanded a final hammer price of £140,100 ($187,734), comfortably exceeding its pre-sale estimate of £100,000-150,000 ($134,000-$201,000).
This result underscored the increasing global demand for F.P. Journe’s pioneering designs and technical mastery.
Cartier Crash Breaks Records with Unique Design
Another headline-making piece was the Cartier Crash, reference 2463 (circa 2001). Known for its distinctive, distorted shape—a hallmark of the model—this rare specimen was crafted in 18K rose gold and featured a diamond-set case, a silvered dial, and an elegant grey satin Cartier strap.
Its exceptional rarity and unique aesthetic drove its final price to an astonishing £114,700 ($153,698), doubling the pre-sale estimate of £40,000-60,000 ($53,600-$80,400).
The Cartier Crash’s record-breaking sale highlighted the growing collector interest in unusual, artful watches that transcend traditional design boundaries.
A Diverse and Prestigious Collection Attracts Global Enthusiasts
The 57-lot auction was a curated showcase of horological excellence, featuring timepieces from esteemed brands such as Rolex, Jaeger LeCoultre, Breguet, Audemars Piguet, Piaget, and Omega.
The collection boasted limited editions, vintage rarities, and iconic models that appealed to a broad spectrum of collectors and investors. The sale’s strong performance reflected the vibrant international market for high-end watches, with buyers eager to acquire pieces that combine heritage, craftsmanship, and exclusivity.
Additional Notable Lots
The auction’s success was further exemplified by several outstanding lots that achieved remarkable prices, often surpassing expectations.
F.P. Journe Octa Réserve de Marche (circa 2022): an exceedingly rare platinum automatic calendar watch, limited to 99 pieces (No. 34/99-AN), which fetched £102,000 ($136,680).
F.P. Journe Lune Black Label (circa 2022): Featuring a platinum case, automatic calendar, and moon phase complication, this highly sought-after model sold for £95,650 ($128,171), far exceeding its £60,000-80,000 ($80,400-$107,200) estimate.
Patek Philippe Reference 5230G-032: an exceptional 18K white gold world time watch honoring Taiwan’s oldest luxury retailer, King’s Sign Watch Company.
Highlighted by a striking turquoise blue guilloché dial and Taipei as a prominent feature, this rare piece sold for £89,300 ($119,662)—more than double its pre-sale estimate of £40,000-60,000 ($53,600-$80,400).
Patek Philippe Nautilus 5712/1A (circa 2019): a highly coveted stainless steel automatic calendar watch with moon phase and power reserve, which achieved £70,250 ($94,135), surpassing its estimate of £45,000-65,000 ($60,300-$87,100).
Patek Philippe Reference 5327G-001: an 18K white gold perpetual calendar with moon phase, sold for £57,550 ($77,117), well above its valuation of £35,000-45,000 ($46,900-$60,300).
A Resounding Success Reflects Strong Global Demand
Penelope Andrews, Bonhams Head of Watches in London, expressed her enthusiasm: “We were privileged to present a carefully curated selection of timepieces that resonated with collectors worldwide. The results, especially for the single-owner collection of F.P. Journe and the rare Cartier Crash, demonstrate the enduring passion and investment interest in horological excellence.”
With 88% of lots sold by lot and 91% by total value, the auction underscored the resilience and allure of high-end watch collecting. As demand continues to grow for both vintage rarities and contemporary innovations, Bonhams’ December sale has set a high benchmark for the year ahead, reaffirming its status as a leading platform for luxury watch enthusiasts globally.
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