Christie’s New York, 16 December – our picks

For its New York sale on 16 December, Christie’s assembled another fine catalogue. These are our favourites.

Audemars Piguet 5516

Only nine 5516 were made: three first-series examples with the moon phase at 12 o’clock and six second-series (like this one) with the moon phase at 6 o’clock. Beyond its rarity, the watch is in outstanding condition. Lot 162, estimate $150,000–300,000.

Patek Philippe 591

One of our favourite Patek Philippe chronographs. A superb rose gold example, never offered publicly before, with an untouched rose gold dial confirmed by the Extract from the Archives, and a very crisp case. Lot 187, estimate $100,000–200,000.

Universal Genève Compax “Panda”

An early series with the applied “U” logo and tapered sub-register hands, in excellent condition and with all the accessories one could hope for: certificate of guarantee, literature, box and original strap. Lot 112, estimate $15,000–25,000.

Universal Genève Uni-Compax “Big Eye”

In very nice condition, with a black dial and silver registers; only about ten “Big Eye” are known. The condition report notes that an engraving on the case back was removed, and with it the serial and reference numbers – which may be an opportunity. Lot 111, estimate $6,000–8,000.

Breguet diver

A super rare diver’s watch, of which only three are known on the market today, still in very good condition. Lot 120, estimate $60,000–80,000.

Photographs: Christie’s.