Christie’s Important Watches sale realized $9.3 million with an exceptional 96% sell-through rate, reaffirming the continued strength and depth of the global watch market. Leading the auction was the Charles Frodsham Silver Grande & Petite Sonnerie Hump-Back Tourbillon Carriage Clock from the Edlis | Neeson Collection, which achieved $952,500—nearly five times its low estimate. Participation was robust across all channels, with competitive bidding in the saleroom, over the phones, and online. Global engagement remained strong, with 52% of bids from the Americas, 19% from Asia Pacific, and 29% from EMEA, and 42% of bidders and buyers new to Christie’s.
Rebecca Ross, Head of Sale, Christie’s New York, remarked:
“We are thrilled with the results of our Important Watches auction. Throughout the sale, it was exciting to see multiple lots exceed their high estimates—most notably the Charles Frodsham carriage clock. From rare Patek Philippe pieces to Cartier classics, spirited competition came from every channel. Collectors responded with remarkable enthusiasm, and these results underscore the global appetite for exceptional timepieces.”
Among the standout moments was the Patek Philippe Serpico Y Laino Black Enamel Calatrava Ref. 2526, which achieved $660,400. This exceptional example is the only known first-series reference 2526 featuring a black enamel dial with luminous indexes, retailed by Serpico Y Laino. Another highlight, the Patek Philippe “The Scout” Piece Unique—an 18k gold Lepine-style keyless lever open-face watch with Breguet numerals and a hand-engraved case—featured a miniature enamel painting by G. Menni after Charles Marion Russell. It sold for $520,700, far surpassing its $100,000 low estimate.
Strong results also emerged for Cartier, including a rare Gold Cushion-Shaped Wristwatch characterized by its distinctive “Batman” case shape and dial reminiscent of the iconic Driver’s watch. Estimated at $8,000–$12,000, it realized $76,200, nearly ten times its high estimate.
Christie’s watch offerings continue with Watches Online: The New York Edit, open for bidding through 17 December.