On May 12, Sotheby’s will host its Important Watches: Part I sale of 95 rare and exceptional timepieces, including a “hidden collection” of 15 watches (in fantastic condition) by Audemars Piguet, A. Lange & Söhne, and other leading makers that were stored in a private vault and preserved by a single consignor.
Another highlight of the sale is a Daytona “Alpine Research” chronograph Rolex, one of only four known to be in existence. The watch comes from the original owner’s family, who are credited with helping create Switzerland’s Alpine Research Foundation.
That watch is shown below, along with other pieces up for auction. The last three watches pictured are from the hidden collection.
Patek Philippe circa 1964 chronograph (also pictured at top), retailed by Tiffany & Co., in yellow gold with perpetual calendar and moon phases, estimate $772,525–$1,545,050Rolex Daytona “Alpine Research” ref. 6265 chronograph in stainless steel, circa 1971, estimate $275,902-$551,804Richard Mille Prototype 3 ref. RM27-01 (circa 2014), Rafael Nadal prototype carbon skeletonized tourbillon wristwatch, estimate $882,886–$1,655,411Rolex Daytona “John Player Special” ref. 6241 chronograph wristwatch in 14k yellow gold, circa 1969, estimate $662,164–$882,886George Daniels limited-edition yellow gold wristwatch with date, circa 1999, estimate $386,230–$606,933Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore “The Beast” No. 001 chronograph wristwatch (circa 1997) with date and bracelet in platinum, estimate $110,352– $220,703Audemars Piguet No. 001 ref. 5548PT wristwatch in platinum (circa 1983) with Tuscany blue dial, perpetual calendar, and moon phases, estimate $22,070–$44,141A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 ref. 151.001 bracelet watch in yellow gold (circa 1995) with digital date display and power reserve indication, estimate $55,139–$110,278
