Sotheby’s Geneva claimed a new record for the most expensive watch auctioned this year as a 1952 Patek Pilippe ‘The Asprey’ perpetual calendar ref.2499 went under the hammer for CHF 3,915,000 (£3 million).
The auction attracted over 900 bidders from 54 countries, with nearly a quarter of buyers choosing to buy online. 30% of participants were new to Sotheby’s.
The increased participation helped the “Important Watches” sale to sell pieces totaling CHF 12,208,000 (£9.3m) – the second highest total in ten years for a Sotheby’s watch sale in Geneva.
“The enthusiasm we felt from international collectors before the sale has translated into strong bidding today, in recognition of the world-class quality pieces we offered, including of course the legendary “Asprey”. This watch is the ultimate 2499: enormously rare, absolutely pristine – a dream for watch lovers. In 2018, we have seen some of our best results in years, and we are delighted that our approach, seeking out the very highest quality and focusing on expertise, has resonated with collectors,” said Sam Hines, global head of Sotheby’s Watches.
A steel 1968 Paul Newman Rolex Daytona ref. 6241, pictured above right, sold for CHF 287,500 (£220,000).
