Story Highlight
– Bonhams London Watches sale on 25 February features 143 lots.
– Highlights include luxury brands like Rolex and Patek Philippe.
– Leading lot: Rolex Military Submariner, £65,000-85,000 estimate.
– Other notable models: Jean-Claude Killy Dato Compax, GMT-Master II.
– Bidding is open; collection showcases exceptional craftsmanship.
Full Story
Bonhams is set to conduct its London Watches live auction on 25 February, showcasing a selection of 143 meticulously chosen lots that encompass both vintage and contemporary wristwatches.
The auction features sought-after pieces from prestigious brands including Breguet, Patek Philippe, IWC, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Vacheron Constantin, Piaget, Cartier, and Tiffany & Co., alongside a wide array of Rolex timepieces, with models dating from the 1930s to the present day.
Among the star attractions is a Rolex Military Submariner, reference 5513/5517, from around 1975. This unique stainless steel automatic watch, characterised by its black dial, was specifically manufactured for the British Military through the Ministry of Defence, representing the first Submariner variant tailored for military personnel. This rare piece is estimated to fetch between £65,000 and £85,000.
Another highlight from the Rolex collection is the Jean-Claude Killy Dato Compax, reference 6036, which dates back to 1953. Made of 18K gold, this manual-wind triple calendar chronograph is one of only a few hundred ever produced and pays tribute to the Olympic skiing champion. Its estimated value ranges from £20,000 to £30,000.
Also featured are military-themed timepieces, including a limited-edition Rolex GMT-Master II ‘Sea King’, reference 116710LN, from 2014, which honours the well-known amphibious helicopter. This particular model is one of only 123 made and is estimated to sell for between £20,000 and £25,000.
Further noteworthy Rolex pieces in the auction are a 1950 Precision Gabus (ref. 8206), a 1950 Piccolino Anti-Magnetique (ref. 3055), and a 1930 Prince (ref. 1527), with estimates ranging from £4,000 to £12,000.
Charles Dower, the Head of Knightsbridge Watches at Bonhams, remarked, “The Bonhams London Watches live sale includes fine examples of highly desirable timepieces by the most illustrious designers, celebrated for their extraordinary craftsmanship. Together, the collection offers timepieces that are both eminently wearable and highly sought after in today’s market.”
Bidding for the auction is currently open, and interested participants can view the lots online.
