Hong Kong – Bonhams will present the Hong Kong Watches sale on 29 November celebrating the world of independent watchmaking including notable limited-edition timepieces with dramatic black dials. The sale includes timepieces from names including Richard Mille, H. Moser & Cie. and MB&F in addition to designs from Rolex, Patek Philippe, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Audemars Piguet, Breguet, and Louis Vuitton.
Sharon Chan, Head of department, Director of Watches, Asia, commented: “To coincide with the prestigious opening of the new Bonhams Asia Headquarters, we are delighted to present the live Hong Kong watches sale that includes a selection of highly sought-after independent watchmakers that have created designs outside of traditional watchmaking driven by tenacity and constant refinement. Inspired by the impossible, independent watchmakers never cease to fascinate watch enthusiasts across the globe. The sale additionally includes a horology playground of high luxury timepieces from LVMH who are refining their watch offering with its use of technology and materials to create impeccable watches for a new audience."
Leading the sale is a rare Patek Philippe, reference 5078G, circa 2019. The single sealed white gold minute repeating automatic wristwatch features a unique arabesque pattern on a grand feu black enamel dial, fusing matte and shiny finishes that are harder to produce than a more traditional white enamel dial. The Patek Philippe Reference 5078G- 010 is a stunning example of fine watchmaking, known for its intricate design and exceptional craftsmanship. The current lot is exceedingly rare, as it is a factory single sealed example of only around 30 timepieces that were created, making it a grail level timepiece for collectors and important highlight of the 2024 fall auction season. Offered with an estimate of HK$3,200,000-4,500,000.
Another notable lot is a Richard Mille, Felipe Massa yellow storm, reference RM011- FM, limited-edition carbon TPT open worked annual calendar flyback chronograph wristwatch, circa 2015. Of all the timepieces famed ultra luxury independent watchmaker Richard Mille has created, the RM011 launched in 2007, is the most celebrated watch in its lineup, created in collaboration with Brazilian Formula 1 driver Felipe Massa. The incredible sporty timepiece with its skeletonised dial and black carbon TPT case that is lightweight, creates a dramatic finish that contrasts with its yellow accents. The current lot is one of a limited edition of 50 pieces, making it rare to see an example at auction.Offered with an estimate of HK$1,800,000-2,800,000.
Other sale highlights include a H. Moser & Cie Streamliner Tourbillon, reference 6804- 0400, circa 2022, pink gold tourbillon bracelet watch with Vantablack® dial. The stunning timepiece is a true showcase of the great independent watchmaking that H. Moser & Cie is renowned for and is a technological marvel with a dial that takes watchmaking to new heights. Vantablack® holds the world record as the darkest man-made substance absorbing 99.96% of its light making the effect of this dial incredible, even in strong light no shadows are visible from the hands, and the effect mimics a black hole, creating a mysterious vision on the wrist. Offered with an estimate of HK$550,000-1,000,000.
Other sale highlights include:
- A MB&F HM4 Thunderbolt wristwatch, circa 2007. The MB&F HM4 Thunderbolt is a remarkable timepiece that pushes the boundaries of horological design and engineering. The timepiece draws inspiration from aviation, particularly the Fairchild Republic A-10 Thunderbolt aircraft. Its design features two jet engine-shaped pods that house the dials, giving it a futuristic and dynamic look. The watch is crafted from high-grade titanium and sapphire crystal, ensuring durability and a lightweight feel. The watch took three years to develop and consists of over 300 components. Beyond just a timepiece, the HM4 Thunderbolt is a piece of art that showcases MB&F’s innovative approach to watchmaking. The manual wind titanium and sapphire watch with power reserve indicator and black dial, is offered with an estimate of HK$600,000-1,200,000.
- A De Bethune DB28-TIS5 skeletonised titanium wristwatch with spherical moon phase and power reserve indicator, circa 2010. The De Bethune DB28-TiS5 is a stunning example of modern horology, blending innovative design with exceptional craftsmanship from the mind of famed independent watchmaker Denis Flageollet. The De Bethune DB28-TiS5 is a truly unique timepiece in the world of independent watchmaking, and alongside other releases such as the DB25 Starry Varius, has become a hallmark of the watchmaker’s identity in collectors’ circles. De Bethune is poised to become a true phenomenon in watch collecting in the years to come. The manual wind watch is offered with an estimate of HK$500,000-1,000,000.
Right: De Bethune DB28- TIS5 skeletonised titanium wristwatch, estimate of HK$500,000-1,000,000
- A Richard Mille RM007 white gold and diamond-set wristwatch, circa 2008. The design features mother-of-pearl dial with diamond-set indexes, and movement with special micro-ball rotor. It is offered with an estimate of HK$800,000-1,500,000.
- A limited-edition Cabestan Trapezium 5, titanium wristwatch with vertical tourbillon and fuseé-chaine, circa 2016. The manual winding calibre with skeletonised dial, is offered with an estimate of HK$250,000-540,000.
Right: Cabestan Trapezium 5, titanium wristwatch, estimate of HK$250,000-540,000
- A Louis Vuitton repetition minutes, reference Q1BH30, semi skeletonized pink gold minute repeating wristwatch, circa 2016. The automatic timepiece features a power reserve indicator and diamond set logo. Offered with an estimate of HK$400,000-800,000.
