Some Remarkable Watches At Phillips Geneva Auction
This weekend it is time for some action again in Geneva, as Phillips will be having its November auction. As is usual, there are many highlights among the 226 lots that will hopefully be welcomed by their new owners. As always, the selection is remarkably diverse, but also very high-end not only in terms of make and model but also in terms of quality. Here are a few lots that caught our eye!
Lot 192, Rolex GMT-Master ‘Lefty’
While a late 1950’s Rolex GMT-Master in yellow gold is a treat by itself, this one adds to this that the crown is positioned on the left side of the case. While Rolex has been known to do this on occasion, they are extremely rare. Combined with the beautiful hue of the dial and the bezel, as well as the hands and hour indexes that were so typical of this generation GMT-Master, it makes for an exceptional watch.
Lot 36, Omega Speedmaster Alaska I
Prototypes always have a unique halo around them, but this one takes it to the next level, as Omega delivered this Speedmaster Alaska I to the NASA around 1970, where it was tested in relation to the famed Apollo program. They must have handled it with care, because the watch is in an exceptional condition, with its white dial, and signature chronograph counter hands.
Lot 78A, Patek Philippe Ref. 3974
One of the highlights of the auction is also this Patek Philippe Ref. 3974, which features not only a perpetual calendar but also a minute repeater. Its 36mm case is crafted from platinum and shows a remarkable elegance. It is almost understated, in combination with its legible dial. The movement is a work of art, featuring a microrotor with guilloche motif.
Lot 49, Vacheron Constantin Hommage Aux Grands Explorateurs “Marco Polo”
Vacheron ConstantinBy showcasing the travels of Marco Polo has Vacheron Constantin created a unique watch that tells the time by so-called ‘wandering hours’. The current hour is running by a minute scale between four and eight o’clock on the dial, leaving plenty of place for its lavish decorations. With a diameter of 40mm, it is a substantial watch, fitted with automatic caliber 1126, which you cannot see because Vacheron Constantin equipped this watch with a solid gold caseback featuring an engraved wind rose.
