Rare Watches up for Auction
As part of our upcoming Important Jewels, Watches, & Luxury Accessories live auction we are privileged to be offering an exquisite range of rare and historically important timepieces. From the artful elegance of Breguet Reine de Naples, to a rare 1930s pilot’s wristwatch from Omega, there many incredible examples or horological excellence to tempt both the avid collector and those searching for their holy grail heirloom piece. Department manager Samuel Shaw—a specialist in watches and horology—offers a deep dive into some of these very special timepieces.
Lot 102. Ceramic / Titanium, 42mm Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Divers Wristwatch.
EST: $56,000 - $62,000
Lot 77. Audemars Piguet, 43mm Royal Oak Offshore Chronograph Wristwatch.
EST. $68,000 - $73,000
First introduced in 1993, this collection has earned its place as an iconic line in the luxury watch industry. A bold and robust evolution of the original Royal Oak, designed by Gérald Genta in 1972, the Offshore series redefined the sport luxury watch segment. Known for its imposing size, daring use of materials, and rugged aesthetics, the Offshore has become a favourite among watch enthusiasts and collectors.
The Royal Oak Offshore was conceived as a more muscular version of the Royal Oak, aimed at younger audiences and those looking for a more substantial wrist presence. The first Offshore, often dubbed "The Beast," was a 42mm watch, considerably larger than the standard Royal Oak models of the time. Its size, combined with its exposed rubber elements and industrial aesthetic, shocked traditionalists but captivated a new generation of watch lovers.
Despite initial scepticism, the Offshore quickly gained a dedicated following. Its success is partly due to its celebrity endorsements and appearances in popular culture, which helped solidify its status as a symbol of luxury and power. Over the years, Audemars Piguet has expanded the Offshore line, experimenting with different materials, colours, and complications, always pushing the boundaries of design and engineering.
Lot 51. 18ct White Gold, Breguet Reine de Naples Diamond Set Self-winding Wristwatch.
EST. $35,000 - $45,000
For a watch that epitomises luxury, elegance, and historical significance, look no further than Breguet Reine de Naples.
Steeped in the rich legacy of one of the oldest and most prestigious watchmaking houses, the Reine de Naples is not just a timepiece—it's a work of art, a symbol of timeless beauty, and a testament to Breguet’s enduring innovation.
The Breguet Reine de Naples collection traces its roots back to the early 19th century when Abraham-Louis Breguet, the founder of the Breguet brand, crafted a unique timepiece for Caroline Murat, the Queen of Naples and sister of Napoleon Bonaparte. This original creation, believed to be one of the first-ever wristwatches, was commissioned in 1810 and delivered to the queen in 1812. It featured an elongated, oval-shaped case and was designed to be worn on the wrist—a revolutionary concept at the time.
The Breguet Reine de Naples is more than just a wristwatch; it is a piece of history, an embodiment of royal elegance, and a symbol of Breguet’s commitment to innovation and excellence in watchmaking. For collectors, owning a Reine de Naples is an opportunity to possess a watch that connects directly to the origins of the wristwatch itself, a timepiece that exudes sophistication and timeless beauty.
Lot 113. Historically Important, Antique, Stainless Steel OMEGA Marine-World's First Commercial Dive Watch
EST. $5,500 - $6,500
Lot 114. Stainless Steel, Rare, 42mm OMEGA CK700 AD 1930's Pilots Wristwatch
EST. $12,000 - $14,000
Lot 115. OMEGA, CK2777 "Fat Arrow" RAF Issue Mechanical Wristwatch, 1953
EST. $3,900 - $4,500
As a premier auction house, we are honoured to present a trio of historically significant Omega timepieces that have not only defined eras but also set benchmarks in the world of horology. These watches—the OMEGA Marine, the world’s first commercial dive watch; the CK700 Pilot’s Watch, a pioneering aviation timepiece; and the RAF-issued Fat Arrow—are each steeped in rich history and exemplify Omega’s legacy of innovation, precision, and durability.
OMEGA CK679 Marine: The Pioneer of Dive Watches (Lot 113)
The Omega Marine, introduced in 1932, holds the distinguished title of being the world’s first commercial dive watch. This groundbreaking timepiece revolutionised underwater exploration and established Omega as a leader in the development of robust, water-resistant watches. Omega engineered the Marine with a patented double-case design, allowing it to withstand depths up to 135 meters during testing in Lake Geneva, a remarkable feat for its time. The Omega Marine quickly gained acclaim among professional divers and explorers, including Yves Le Prieur, a pioneer in underwater photography. The watch’s success not only solidified Omega’s reputation for innovation but also paved the way for the development of modern dive watches.
OMEGA CK700 Pilot’s Watch: A Milestone in Aviation Timekeeping (Lot 114)
The Omega CK700, introduced in the 1930s, represents a significant chapter in the history of aviation timepieces. This watch was designed specifically for pilots, embodying the qualities of precision, durability, and legibility that were essential for aviation pioneers. During the early days of aviation, reliable timekeeping was crucial for navigation and flight operations. The Omega CK700 was crafted to meet the demands of pilots, featuring a robust construction and a highly legible dial that could be easily read in the cockpit. Its durability and accuracy made it a favourite among aviators, helping Omega establish a strong presence in the world of military and civilian aviation. The CK700’s success also contributed to Omega’s long-standing relationship with air forces around the world, further cementing the brand’s reputation for producing exceptional timepieces for professional use.
OMEGA 6B/159 RAF-Issued ”Fat Arrow” : A Symbol of Military Precision (Lot 115)
The Omega RAF-issued “Fat Arrow”, also known as the Omega 6B/159, is a military watch that embodies the precision and ruggedness required by the Royal Air Force (RAF) during the 1950s. This watch is one of the most iconic timepieces issued to military personnel, valued for its reliability in the demanding conditions of military service.
In the early 1950s, the RAF required a durable and accurate wristwatch for its pilots and navigators. Omega responded with the 6B/159, a watch that became known as the "Fat Arrow" due to the large, broad arrow symbol on its dial, which indicated British military property. The Fat Arrow was specifically designed to meet the stringent specifications of the RAF, including high levels of accuracy, shock resistance, and legibility.
Owning an Omega Marine, CK700 Pilot or “Fat Arrow” is not just about acquiring a watch; it’s about becoming a custodian of a legacy that has shaped the world of horology.
As we look forward to our Important Jewels, Watches, & Luxury Accessories live auction, the exceptional timepieces featured here reflect a rich history of innovation and artistry. From the bold design of the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore to the timeless elegance of the Breguet Reine de Naples, and the legendary Omega models, each piece offers more than just impeccable craftsmanship—they are tokens of horological history. We invite collectors and enthusiasts alike to explore these rare opportunities to own a piece of the legacy that has defined generations of watchmaking excellence.
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