First independent watchmakers toppled Patek Philippe from the top step of the Geneva Watch auction podium.
Now ladies’ watches have commanded higher prices than men’s at Bonham’s latest auction.
Something strange is happening here as collector tastes change and investors look for value away from the overheated end of the market.
Granted, Bonhams’ Knightsbridge sale often throws up surprise results because it steers away from the grand complications and grail watches in favour of more affordable lots.
The idea being that it draws in new enthusiasts without six- or seven-figure budgets by offering more affordable pieces than the big brother Bonhams Bond Street auctions.
A Patek Philippe Gondolo Gemma from 2007 achieved the highest price of the auction of £19,000, double its pre-sale estimate.
The lady’s automatic wristwatch, Ref: 4991R-001 comes in an 18ct gold case set with 72 diamonds.
Also in the top 10, a Patek, Philippe lady’s 18k gold, enamel, diamond, and pearl set keyless wind open face pendant watch from around 1900 sold for £11,475.
Ladies’ favourite Cartier had a good night. A Bamboo Coussin from the brand, originating from around 1970, sold for £11,475, double its pre-sale estimate.
Penelope Andrews, Bonhams head of watches and wristwatches at Knightsbridge, says: “Ladies’ watches led the way in our most successful Knightsbridge sale to date. We had consistently strong bidding throughout the sale, and we’re delighted with the result, which reflects a buoyant market at present.”
Elsewhere in the Knightsbridge sale, a few old favourites showed their enduring value.
A Rolex Sea-Dweller ‘Great White’ Ref: 1665, purchased 11 April 1986, sold for £16,500.
And this classic Patek Philippe Ref: 3606 automatic (circa 1965) in 18k gold sold for £10,200, doubling its pre-sale estimate.
Bonhams Watches UK’s final auction of 2021 is the Fine Watches Sale to be held at the flagship New Bond Street saleroom on 16 December. For further details and to register, contact: watches@bonhams.com.