F.P. Journe, Patek Philippe and Rolex at Christie’s, 27 November

Auctions · · by Christian Bissener


F.P. Journe Tourbillon Anniversaire with white dial, rose gold and steel case and brown strap, tourbillon visible below

Four lots caught the eye ahead of the Christie’s sale on 27 November.

F.P. Journe – Tourbillon Anniversaire

A reinterpretation of the first pocket watch François-Paul Journe made, in 1983. It was a limited series of only 99 pieces and remains, for me, my favourite watch by F.P. Journe. Lot 2703, estimate $50,000–62,000.

Rolex military Submariner

In perfect condition and accompanied by a letter from Rolex confirming that the watch was sold to the British Royal Navy. Lot 2543, estimate $120,000–180,000.

Steel Rolex military Submariner with black dial and khaki strap, beside the engraved caseback
Rolex military Submariner, with its engraved caseback. Photograph: Christie’s

Patek Philippe 565

The only 565 known that combines a stainless steel case with a black dial and steel Breguet numerals. Lot 2513, estimate $13,000–19,000.

Steel Patek Philippe with black dial, Breguet numerals and small seconds on a black strap
Patek Philippe 565 in steel with black dial. Photograph: Christie’s

Patek Philippe 1579

Only eight examples of the Patek Philippe 1579 in stainless steel are known, and most were recased after the 1940s during servicing. The present watch is one of these, recased in 1967. Lot 2522, estimate $200,000–300,000.

Steel Patek Philippe chronograph with cream dial, blue hands and two sub-dials on a brown strap
Patek Philippe 1579 in steel, recased in 1967. Photograph: Christie’s