Introducing three private collections that have attracted the interest of renowned auctioneers

"Latest News from the Global Watch Market" is a series of articles from webChronos that brings you information on watch auctions held around the world.
This time, we will introduce three examples of magnificent private collections that caught the interest of Tim Bourne, International Director of the Watch Department at the long-established auction house Bonhams Hong Kong.

A fascinating collection that reflects the owner's personality

　The allure and allure of watches was beautifully demonstrated at the Bonhams auction in Hong Kong. While most watch auctions around the world currently feature popular models from well-known brands in their sales catalogs, the content can often be very similar, even two-dimensional. However, what is overlooked is that the appeal, history, and tastes of watch collectors vary by region and culture.

　This time we will introduce three private collections that symbolize the temperament and individuality of the collectors.

Niton Geneva

　The first is a marvel shaped, evolved, and painstakingly crafted by passionate Japanese watchmakers: a collection of 18 watches dedicated to "jump hours," most of which are vintage models from the Art Deco era of the 1930s.

　Each model lacks hands, instead indicating the time through an aperture in the dial. This ingenious feature, first developed by Josef Pallweber in 1883, plays an important role in the development and history of time-telling technology. The current owner has been collecting pieces for decades, building a collection that clearly demonstrates his passion for the complex mechanisms required for these wristwatches. Each timepiece demonstrates not only the love of the watchmaker who created it, but also the emotion of the collector who sought out these rare "treasures" of watchmaking, exuding charm, immense individuality and, above all, an extraordinary personality.

Hublot Classic Fusion Tourbillon "Haute Joaillerie"

　The second collection is quite different from the previous one, but it is nonetheless the most interesting. Though it was formed over a short period of time, the 18 watches represent the extraordinary brilliance of its owner, who put a lot of thought into their collection. This collection includes many brands that are rarely offered at global watch auctions, such as Van der Bovewede, Jacob & Co., and Hublot, and it is one that is valued not for the technical characteristics of the movements, but for the artistic and design elements of the cases and dials.

　All of the watches feature flamboyant, colorful dials set with diamonds and precious stones, perfectly capturing the personality of a gregarious, show-off, party-loving man. The star of the collection is Hublot's stunning baguette-cut diamond skeleton tourbillon model, one of only eight ever made.

Patek Philippe "Annual Calendar Chronograph"

　When discussing the provenance of a watch, there is no better place to do so than the Royal Collection.

　The third collection is a prime example, consisting of 32 exquisite watches that have been meticulously maintained since they were purchased and brought to their new palatial home. Primarily luxury watches from Patek Philippe and Rolex, most still in their original packaging, these untouched, unworn timepieces would be highly sought after at auction.

　Collectors are always on the lookout for watches that come with immaculate personal ownership certificates, as they demonstrate the meticulous care taken by collectors to maintain their timepieces in the best possible condition. Furthermore, all watches come with their original boxes and certificates, making them an exclusive addition for future bidders and owners. This collection is notable for its exquisite pieces from Chopard, both high jeweler and watchmaker. These exceptional models represent a fusion of the mechanical elements of a superior automatic movement and the allure of "Hate Joari," featuring cases set with the finest diamonds and sapphires.

　The important thing about holding a watch auction is not necessarily monetary reward, but rather reaching out to collectors from all over the world who share a passion for the fascinating art of watchmaking. Regardless of their financial means, it is wonderful to be able to break down cultural and language barriers and communicate by speaking the common language of "horology" and "watchmaking."