The most iconic Wristwatches told by the expert

The prestigious ‘Wristwatches’ live auction is preparing to amaze collectors and enthusiasts with an exclusive selection of horological masterpieces. The event, scheduled for Tuesday 17 December 2024 at 16:00, at Cambi’s Milan headquarters, presents a new catalogue of unique timepieces, icons of tradition and innovation in the world of watches, ranging from timeless classics to contemporary and neo-vintage timepieces.

Domenico Cecconi, the expert from the Watch Department, tells us about the most iconic timepieces on auction.

Among the stars of the day is the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ‘Paul Newman’ ref. 6239, an iconic model dating back to 1967, the same model worn by Paul Newman on the cover of the film The Winner, a configuration that helped make this watch famous. Its iconic ‘Exotic’ dial tells a story of charisma and personality, made immortal on the wrist of a legend. This example, in excellent condition and among the earliest versions with a Mark II dial, is estimated at between €150,000 and €300,000.

Another rarity is the Omega Speedmaster ‘Apollo Soyuz’ ref. 145.022, presented in 1976 in a limited edition of only 500 pieces to commemorate the Apollo-Soyuz space mission in 1975. This model is distinguished by the mission logo on the dial and its impeccable condition. Case never polished and bracelet perfectly tightened, its estimate is 25,000 and 30,000 euros.

The universe of Copernicus is celebrated by the Ulysse Nardin Planetarium Copernicus ref. 821-22, a 1998 timepiece that fuses art and science. This astronomical watch, crafted in yellow gold, features a midnight blue dial illustrating the movement of the planets according to the heliocentric system. With an estimate of between €18,000 and €25,000, it is a tribute to watchmaking tradition and scientific genius.

Among the contemporary excellences is the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar Ref. 26252OR, a rose gold masterpiece from 2011. With its distinctive silvered Tapisserie dial and visible case back, this watch combines refinement and high complication. In extraordinary condition, its estimated value is between €40,000 and €60,000.

The Daytona charm returns with the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ‘Big Red’ ref. 6263, a 1985 model presented in virtually immaculate condition. With its silver ‘Big Red’ dial and original accessories, including a replacement black dial and an additional bezel, this rare and sought-after example is estimated at between €60,000 and €80,000.

Among the most iconic chronographs is the Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Ref. 3971/E J, produced in 1987. With a hand-finished calibre visible through the screw-down case back, this model embodies the craftsmanship of the Swiss maison. Accompanied by its original box and guarantee, it is valued at between €90,000 and €120,000.

Also from the house of Patek Philippe, the Perpetual Calendar Ref. 3940J, a 1988 neo-vintage in yellow gold, is a unique piece for collectors. With a rare second series dial and excellent condition, it is offered with an estimate of between €35,000 and €50,000.

Contemporary design finds its ultimate expression in the Richard Mille RM-010, a 2009 white gold watch with a skeleton movement. Renowned for its innovative approach to watchmaking, this model combines aesthetics and technology, with an estimate of between €80,000 and €100,000.

Finally, timeless elegance is embodied in the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar ref. 25554BA, a rare 1987 model in yellow gold. Belonging to the first series of the Royal Oak with this complication, it is accompanied by its original guarantee and archive extract. Its estimated value is between €80,000 and €100,000.

The exhibition will be open to the public from Thursday 12 to Monday 16 December, with continuous opening hours from 10:00 to 19:00. On Tuesday 17 December, access will be by appointment only.

The auction will take place in live mode and will be accessible both live and online to allow collectors from all over the world to participate. The full catalogue of works can be viewed on the auction house’s website, with high-resolution images and detailed descriptions of each lot. If you would like more information, you can contact the team of experts directly.

Discover all lots up for auction on cambiaste.com!