It was be sold with a rare Patek that used to belong to Henry Graves Jr.
Two historical rarities will be offered in Christie’s Hong Kong Important Watches auction on November 27.
The first is a Patek Philippe split-second chronograph Ref. 1436 in 18K yellow gold from 1946, ordered by and sold to the late American banker Henry Graves Jr. It is estimated at $1.5 to 3 million.
This will be sold alongside an 18k gold and enamel, pearl-set musical, perfume flask, and automaton amphora-form watch from Piguet & Capt., which is being presented for the first time auction at is estimated at $300,000 to #900,000.
Limited watch
Graves was a longtime patron of the Patek brand, and ordered the 18k gold split in 1946, but acquired it a year later. Mechanically complex, the split seconds chronograph is considered one of the three most challenging complications in the art of watchmaking.
Ref.1436 holds a cherished position in the eyes of collectors as Patek Philippe’s first split seconds chronograph wristwatch produced in series.
The first generation, of which this watch is a part, was made until the late 1940s. Since its introduction to the market in 1938 and discontinued in 1971, only 140 examples were made during the 33 years production period.
As one of the finest examples to ever appear on the market, the present example features applied gold Breguet numerals, often considered the most attractive dial variation.
It is also thought to be the least-commonly made dial for this reference, with most examples featuring baton or a combination of baton and Arabic numerals. To date, just over a dozen of Ref. 1436 models have surfaced featuring such a dial.
This extremely rare and historical timepiece last appeared at auction about 10 years ago.
Imperial piece
Attributed to Piguet & Capt., this 18k gold and enamel, pearl-set musical, perfume flask and automaton amphora-form watch is believed to be made for the Chinese imperial family, in circa 1805.
Its twin is apparently stored and exhibited in the Patek Philippe museum.
In good condition considering its age, this marvel of rarity is absolutely fresh to the market and is being presented for the first time at auction. This object reveals a splendor of mechanics and craftmanship, and continues to capture the imagination of collectors.
The last amphora-form watch seen at auction was May 2021 at Christie’s Hong Kong. Attributed to Jean-François-Adam Hess, it was sold for $1,584,735.
For more information, visit Christies.com.
