From a legendary Patek Philippe to groundbreaking independents, Phillips’ Decade One auction realised CHF 66.8 million in sales, highlighting the thriving global community that fuels the enduring allure of fine watchmaking.
Phillips’ Decade One auction was nothing short of a celebration—ten remarkable years of watch collecting brought together under one roof at the elegant Hotel Président in Geneva. From the moment the doors opened, it was clear this was more than a sale; it was a gathering of kindred spirits united by a shared passion for horology, tales whispered through ticking hands and gleaming dials.
The auction, marking a full decade of Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo’s unwavering dedication to the art of watchmaking, drew hundreds of collectors and enthusiasts from 72 countries.
The atmosphere was alive with a rare energy—a convivial blend of anticipation, reverence, and joyful camaraderie. Conversations flowed freely, friendships were renewed, and new connections were made, all set against a backdrop of extraordinary timepieces steeped in history and craftsmanship.
Over two days of meticulous bidding, the sale realised a staggering CHF 66.8 million (over $83 million), with every lot finding a new home. The sheer scale of participation—nearly 1,900 registered bidders, the majority joining online from across the globe—reinforced Phillips’ position at the heart of the watch community.
Nearly 800 guests filled the saleroom, while dynamic telephone and online bidding added to the electric atmosphere.
This was not merely about numbers; it was about stories—each watch a chapter in the greater narrative of time. Take, for instance, the star lot: the stainless steel Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Ref. 1518 from 1943. This watch is no ordinary timepiece; it is a piece of horological legend, the first-ever perpetual calendar chronograph made in stainless steel by Patek Philippe, embodying both rarity and enduring craftsmanship.
The bidding drama itself was a spectacle, lasting over nine minutes, with five bidders locked in spirited pursuit before the final gavel brought it home to a phone bidder for an astonishing CHF 14.19 million—setting a new auction record. One collector recalling the moment described it as “watch collecting at its thrilling, passionate best,” with the tension and excitement rivalling that of a championship final.
Auction HighlightsPrice (CHF)NotesPatek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Ref. 1518 (1943)14,190,000Most expensive vintage Patek Philippe wristwatch ever sold at auction.Pink-on-pink Patek Philippe 1518 (1947)3,569,000One of approximately 15 known examples.Ferdinand Berthoud “Naissance d’Une Montre 3”1,270,000World record for the brand at auction; educational craftsmanship project.Rolex Daytona “Paul Newman” Ref. 6239 “Golden Pagoda”1,079,500World record for this configuration.Ernst Schuster Collection (16 Patek Philippe timepieces)3,373,930Nearly quadruple its pre-sale low estimate.
Another highlight came from the pink-on-pink Patek Philippe Ref. 1518 from 1947, one of just around 15 known examples. This subtle yet striking variation showcased the delicate artistry of mid-century watchmaking, with a dial as soft and inviting as rose petals. It fetched CHF 3.57 million, its sale prompting whispers among attendees about the blend of elegance and rarity that captures collectors’ hearts.
A seasoned collector shared fond memories of hunting down a similar pink dial piece years ago, describing how such watches become lifelong companions, their stories interwoven with those who wear them.
Meanwhile, the independent watchmaking scene shone brightly with the Ferdinand Berthoud “Naissance d’Une Montre 3,” a unique timepiece that sold for CHF 1.27 million, setting a world record for the brand. More than a watch, this creation is the result of an educational journey in traditional craftsmanship.
A portion of the proceeds benefits a foundation dedicated to preserving centuries-old watchmaking skills—a cause deeply valued by collectors who see themselves as custodians of horological heritage. One collector was overheard remarking on the significance of owning a watch that supports such an important mission, calling it “a gift that connects past, present, and future.”
Decade One also spotlighted incredible Rolex gems. The circa 1967 Daytona “Paul Newman” Ref. 6239 “Golden Pagoda” dazzled with its champagne dial and earned CHF 1.08 million, breaking the record for its configuration.
Its provenance, condition, and story make it a beacon for Rolex enthusiasts, symbolising a golden era of design and innovation. Collectors in the saleroom shared anecdotes about the magnetism of such pieces, recounting tales of the Daytona’s rise in cult status and how it transformed from a tool watch to a treasured icon.
The Ernst Schuster Collection, featuring 16 Patek Philippe timepieces, also exceeded expectations, amassing CHF 3.37 million—nearly four times its low estimate. The collection’s top lot was the fourth-series 1983 Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Ref. 2499/100 in 18k yellow gold (below), signed “Gübelin” on the dial, which sold for CHF 1.33 million. Another notable piece was a 1961 Patek Philippe Ref. 3424/1 in platinum with a diamond-set bezel, designed by Gilbert Albert, achieving a world record price of CHF 812,800.
This celebration of horology extended beyond wristwatches to extraordinary pocket watches and clocks, including Napoleon Bonaparte’s marine chronometer and J.P. Morgan Jr.’s Cartier mystery clock—each an emblem of history, art, and the transformative power of time.
Phillips Senior Consultants Aurel Bacs and Livia Russo summed up the event best when they said, “This auction was far more than a commercial triumph—it was a heartwarming testament to a community built on trust, shared passion, and a genuine love for watches.” Every handshake, every bid, every smile mirrored the decades of dedication Phillips has poured into cultivating this global family.
The Decade One auction was not just an homage to ten years of landmark moments but a vibrant glimpse into the future of watch collecting—where history and innovation intertwine, collectors and enthusiasts from all corners of the world converge, and the stories behind the watches are treasured just as much as the pieces themselves.
Phillips continues to stand as a beacon for this community—a place where horological knowledge is shared, friendships are formed, and the timeless magic of fine watchmaking is forever celebrated.
Auction photography by Joy Corthesy and © Phillips.
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