Andy Warhol’s rare Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar to be auctioned by Christie’s along with other interesting watches

Christie's is gearing up for a notable watch auction on December 5th at New York's Rockefeller Centre, featuring a piece with a connection to the legendary Andy Warhol.Before arriving in New York for its final showcase from December 1st to 4th, the selection of timepieces will make appearances in Geneva and Hong Kong. This auction event is set to include 24 significant watches, but the highlight we will be first discussing now is Warhol's own Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Ref 3448.

Andy Warhol: An avid collector and his 3448

Warhol, an icon in the art world for his unique take on what constitutes art, was also a prolific collector. His extensive collection, known as "Andy’s stuff," was disbanded in a posthumous 10-day auction following his death in February 1987.

The Patek Philippe in question, passing through hands since then, is currently known for its pristine condition. It remained in the possession of the initial buyer until 2014 before being passed on to its current owner.

The vintage Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Ref. 3448 that once graced the wrist of Andy Warhol is more than a mere collectible. This timepiece is a marvel of craftsmanship, composed of 18-karat yellow gold and maintained in exquisite condition. Its dial features distinct markers and inscriptions with the ‘Aprior’ label flanking the term ‘Swiss’ at the 6 o'clock position.

The minute markers are represented by painted batons. Patek Philippe itself restored the dial in the 1980s, ensuring the satiné opalin finish by Stern Frères—a signature of their most prestigious dials—remained intact. The 18-karat gold casing is just as stunning, remaining in its original state with sharp, crisp lines that bear evidence of careful handling and preservation, boasting distinct hallmarks that speak to its authenticity and fine craftsmanship.

Unveiled in 1962, Ref. 3448 housed Patek’s first self-winding perpetual calendar movement. The model was reimagined over time with four different dial variations. He bought it in 1978 and Warhol’s example has a last series dial and is believed to be one of only 450 that were made.

The auction's expected price for this 18k Gold Automatic Perpetual Calendar Wristwatch with Moon Phases is set between $350,000 and $600,000.

Other remarkable watches being offered

• Patek Philippe 2001 Sky Moon Tourbillon (Ref 5002P-001): A horological triumph with a platinum body and 12 complexities. Noteworthy for being one of the brand's most intricate designs with a celestial chart display, it comes with an anticipated bid range of $1,200,000 to $2,200,000.

• Rolex Daytona “Paul Newman” Oyster Sotto, (Ref 6263): also part of the Christie’s lineup. Its special RCO dial, featuring "Oyster" after "Rolex Cosmograph," is a rare find with only 25 known pieces in existence. This watch is estimated to fetch between $200,000 and $400,000.

• Richard Mille RM 018 “Hommage A Boucheron”: Crafted in 2008 to mark Boucheron's 150th anniversary, is included. With just 30 pieces available globally, this model boasts sapphire crystal plates within its movement and a tourbillon embellished with precious stones. The auction house has priced this exclusive piece to be in the region of $500,000 to $1,000,000.