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Unveiling the Best of Geneva Watch Auction XVII: A Preview of Timeless Treasures

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Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo has announced the highlights of its forthcoming auction, the Geneva Watch Auction: XVII, which is set to take place on May 13 and 14 at the Hôtel La Réserve. The collection comprises over 200 carefully selected timepieces from the 20th and 21st centuries, representing some of the most sought-after and exceptional designs in the market.

According to Alexandre Ghotbi, Head of Watches, Continental Europe & Middle East, and Tiffany To, Head of Sale, the Geneva Watch Auction: XVII has been curated to perfection. The auction promises something for every budget, from the most seasoned collectors to those just starting out on their journey.

The auction features several noteworthy pieces, including the Patek Philippe perpetual calendar chronograph reference 2499, which is considered one of the most iconic watches of the second half of the 20th century. The sale includes a first-series edition in yellow gold from the family of the original owner, a second-series version in pink gold, and a third-series iteration formerly owned by the voice actor of Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck, Mel Blanc.

Also up for bidding is the extremely rare reference 6270 yellow-gold manual Daytona from Rolex, featuring baguette diamonds and a pavé dial. The auction also includes the reference 6541 Milgauss, initially crafted for scientists at CERN, in excellent condition with original guarantee, a hang tag, and a chronometer certificate. Additionally, Phillips is selling the reference 6232 two-counter chronograph in pink gold, originally owned by the son of the original owner.

The auction also features exceptional timepieces from Vacheron Constantin, such as the 222 “Jumbo” in white gold, which previously was unknown and changes scholarship, and from Audemars Piguet, an “exceptionally well-preserved” chronograph with full calendar indications in yellow gold. The sale includes A. Lange & Söhne‘s platinum Datograph, a 10-piece limited-edition timepiece created for Pisa in 2004.

Independent watchmakers are also represented in the auction, with the Philippe Dufour Grande & Petite Sonnerie pocket watch N°1, built for Audemars Piguet in the 1980s, and a Simplicity timepiece in a white gold case. The Naissance d’Une Montre 2, an original handmade, white-gold wristwatch from Robert Greubel, Stephen Forsey of Greubel Forsey, and Felix Baumgartner and Martin Frei of Urwerk, is also available.

The Geneva Watch Auction: XVII is set to offer some of the most exceptional and coveted timepieces in the world, making it a must-attend event for watch enthusiasts and collectors alike.