May 13, 2014: The Sotheby’s New York auction of Important Watches on June 10, 2014 will offer a remarkable selection of wristwatches by Patek Philippe from a private collection, featuring a group of five pieces commissioned in titanium. The collection is led by the Ref 5001T Sky Moon Tourbillon, a previously undocumented reference and the only known example of Patek Philippe’s coveted Sky Moon Tourbillon in titanium (est. $1/1.5 million*), as well as the legendary 1923 Officier, the first split-seconds chronograph wristwatch produced by the firm (est. $800,000/1.2 million).
The collection includes additional references by Patek Philippe that have remained unknown to collectors, as well as unique pieces incorporating rare materials and designs beyond titanium. The 12 watches are together estimated at more than $3 million.
Daryn Schnipper, Chairman of Sotheby’s Watch & Clock Department, commented: “When first learning about this collection, it was almost impossible to conceive of so many important yet unknown pieces from Patek Philippe. The five titanium watches are an absolute revelation. The superior metal makes each of the watches the best version of itself, highlighting the complications while also making the pieces eminently wearable – the experience of picking up and feeling how light they are is incredible. This group is a testament to the influence and ultimate connoisseurship of its collector, who had the foresight to customize these references in discreet yet significant ways. It is a true privilege to offer these watches at auction in June.”
