The autumn auction season is now upon us, following a robust performance by Sotheby's in Hong Kong, where a unique white gold Cartier Cheich timepiece fetched an unprecedented $3.4 million, establishing new records for both Cartier and quartz watches. This significant sale, occurring just before the official onset of fall, has set a high bar, making it challenging to predict market trends accurately. The watch market continues to exhibit unpredictable behavior, with some valuations defying conventional wisdom while others prompt scrutiny, especially concerning inflated prices for brands like F.P. Journe and A. Lange & Söhne. The recent debate between Langepedia and Alfredo Paramico regarding the Lange market’s stability—whether it's driven by genuine rarity or speculative bidding—underscores the uncertainty. For example, a Tourbillon Pour le Mérite, once difficult to sell at $400,000, now commands over $1 million, raising questions about market manipulation and inflated values. Similarly, previous claims of unique F.P. Journe pieces have been challenged, emphasizing the importance of thorough verification. The overall sentiment suggests a cautious approach for buyers, advising them to purchase what truly resonates with their personal value rather than succumbing to speculative market trends. As one might say, it's a wild ride, and understanding personal value is key.
Marteau & Co. is once again hosting a carefully curated auction, "The Encore," running from October 8 to 15, which showcases approximately 40 exceptional timepieces. A standout offering is a complete set of 38mm F.P. Journe watches in steel with gold dials, including the Tourbillon, Resonance, Octa Calendrier, Reserve de Marche, and Chronometre Souverain, making its auction debut. This set is expected to draw considerable attention given the current market. Other notable pieces include a unique rose gold Piece Unique Origine by Sylvain Pinaud and Yosuke Sekiguchi's Primevere, both from highly talented independent watchmakers whose works are gaining recognition. Additionally, the auction features rare pieces like Ludovic Ballouard's Half Time and Marco Lang's Zweigesicht-1, offering unique opportunities for collectors. More accessible options include watches from Reuben Schoots, Ondrej Berkus, and Habring2, whose Five Minute Repeater stands out with its distinctive skeletonized dial. A J.N. Shapiro piece is also expected to exceed its high estimate. Marteau's diverse catalog also includes a unique Philippe Dufour Simplicity with an aventurine dial, previously offered for charity, in an upcoming October auction titled "The Blue Print."
Antiquorum is returning to New York with a live auction on October 18 at the Ned Nomad, marking its first New York presence in over a decade. The sale, featuring 157 lots, begins with books and memorabilia before showcasing prominent watches such as a Comex Submariner and a Tiffany-signed 14k yellow gold Rolex ref. 6241 Daytona. The authenticity of double-signed pieces warrants careful inspection due to market sensitivities. A potentially unique Patek ref. 96, from an early production run, is also featured, prompting buyers to rely on their instincts given the archival ambiguities surrounding its dial configuration. Post-sale of various ephemera and clocks, two special-order Cartier Crash watches with estimates between $400,000 and $600,000 are expected to attract strong bids. A Bueche-Girod watch, resembling a Cartier Maxi Oval, is listed at a more modest $15,000 to $30,000. The auction also includes modern pieces from Rolex, Harry Winston, Hublot, IWC, and Franck Muller, alongside a Patek ref. 5102 Celestial. A unique Henri Moser Streamliner Tourbillon, despite its mislabeled brand name, offers a vibrant, rainbow-set design. Concluding the highlights are several F.P. Journe watches, including a Vagabondage II and a Black Label Tourbillon Vertical, and a remarkable Vacheron Les Complications ref. 30020, offering high complications in a platinum case at a fraction of the cost of comparable Patek Philippe models, showcasing Antiquorum's strength in offering undervalued, historically significant pieces.
In the evolving landscape of watch auctions, informed decision-making and a genuine appreciation for horological artistry remain paramount. Despite market fluctuations and speculative pricing, the intrinsic value and craftsmanship of unique timepieces continue to captivate collectors, fostering a vibrant and dynamic community.
