Exclusive Richard Mille Timepiece Poised to Break Records at Prestigious Christie’s Auction in New York
Christie's auction house in New York is preparing to showcase its most luxurious timepiece to date, a rare Richard Mille watch. Alongside this exclusive piece, collectors can anticipate other remarkable timepieces, including those once owned by a former US President and an Apollo 7 astronaut.
Christie's auction house in New York is getting ready to showcase its priciest watch yet - a special edition Richard Mille. Alongside this exquisite timepiece, they will also be auctioning off rare watches previously owned by a former US president and an Apollo 7 astronaut.
One of the highlights of the auction is the Richard Mille wristwatch, which features a unique sapphire case design and a skeletonized tourbillon made of sapphire crystal. It is anticipated to fetch a staggering $4 million at the auction taking place at Christie's Rockefeller Center on June 10.
One of just 10 editions, this special timepiece will be up for auction in the "Important Watches" sale by Christie's. The sale showcases top-notch wristwatches that reflect the rich history of watchmaking.
Sylvester Stallone with the Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime.
Sylvester Stallone with the Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime.
Sotheby's
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"We are excited to present the Limited-Edition Richard Mille RM56-02 AO Tourbillon Sapphire, a groundbreaking timepiece that showcases innovative materials and micro-engineering," stated Rebecca Ross, head of sale at Christie's in New York.
Christie's will also be auctioning off a unique limited-edition Richard Mille watch featuring a diamond-set skull, which is estimated to sell for up to $1 million.
Also available for auction is a unique stainless steel Rolex Daytona wristwatch featuring a rare "Paul Newman" dial and bracelet. This special timepiece was worn by the late NASA astronaut Walter Cunningham during his time in space. The auction house anticipates that it will fetch a price of up to $450,000.
The Rolex Daytona watch was reportedly worn by late NASA astronaut Walter Cunningham in space.
The Rolex Daytona watch was reportedly worn by late NASA astronaut Walter Cunningham in space.
Christie’s Images Ltd 2024
Last year, Cunningham, who passed away, was chosen to pilot Apollo 7, the initial manned mission of NASA's program that began in 1968 and ultimately led to humans landing on the moon for the first time.
A special 18-carat gold automatic Patek Philippe, personalized by Tiffany & Co. for the 36th US President Lyndon B. Johnson when he was a senator, is anticipated to fetch a price of up to $45,000.
Johnson gave it to Senator Robert Kerr, who later passed it on to the current owner's grandfather. The grandfather, a pilot, had skillfully flown Johnson through a turbulent storm, as reported by Christie's.
Former US President Lyndon B. Johnson wore this Patek Philippe wristwatch.
Former US President Lyndon B. Johnson wore this Patek Philippe wristwatch.
Christie’s Images Ltd 2024
Ross added that the timepieces available in this sale go beyond just being beautiful; they represent important moments in history, from groundbreaking explorations to technical advancements that push boundaries. Collectors are not just buying watches, but also pieces of horological innovation that continue to inspire today.
Selected watches will be on display in Hong Kong from May 24 to 26 before returning to New York, where all the auction items will be on display between June 6 to 10.
Editor's P/S:
This upcoming auction at Christie's promises to be a captivating event for watch enthusiasts and collectors alike. The highlight is undoubtedly the exquisite Richard Mille wristwatch, boasting a groundbreaking sapphire case design and intricate tourbillon movement. Its estimated price of $4 million is a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship and rarity of this timepiece.
Beyond the Richard Mille, the auction will also feature rare and historically significant watches. The Rolex Daytona worn by astronaut Walter Cunningham during the Apollo 7 mission holds particular allure, as it represents a pivotal moment in space exploration. Similarly, the Patek Philippe personalized for former US President Lyndon B. Johnson offers a glimpse into the intersection of politics and horological artistry. These watches are not merely timepieces; they are tangible pieces of history that evoke a sense of awe and inspiration.
