Exceptional Craftsmanship and Record Sales at Only Watch 2024

The 10th edition of the Only Watch auction, held on May 10th 2024, was a spectacular event showcasing 47 unique lots created by 52 of the world's leading watch brands. Hosted by Christie's at the Palexpo Congress Center in Geneva, this event kicked off the spring watch sales season and drew over 500 collectors, brands, journalists, and influencers from around the globe. All lots were sold, some after some significant bidding, culminating in a total sale value of roughly €28.999 million. In this article we briefly present some of these lots.

This was a charity auction which means there was no buyer's premium. In essence, the final prices listed are the same as the hammer prices.

Highlight Pieces of the Auction:

Patek Philippe 6301A

This steel minute repeater with a hand-guilloché dial was the star of the auction, fetching 15.7 million CHF ($17.3 million). The bidding started explosively at 5 million CHF, quickly escalated to 10 million, and finally closed at 15.7 million CHF. It was acquired by Zach Lu, known for his previous high-profile purchase at a 2021 auction.

Rexhep Rexhepi Chronometre Antimagnétique

Made from steel, this watch was another highlight, sold for 2.1 million CHF ($2.3 million) after a dynamic bidding process that slowed around 1.5 million before finally closing at the higher price.

FP Journe Chronometre Bleu Furtif

Featuring a new movement, caliber 1522, with power reserve and moon phases, this tantalum watch sold for 2 million CHF ($2.2 million).

Other Independent Creators’ Notable Results:

Richard Mille "Talisman" Necklace

In quite an unexpected turn, this piece soared to 2.38 million CHF.

Petermann Bédat x Auffret Chronomètre D'Observatoire

Sold for 240,000 CHF.

Krayon Anywhere

Achieved 440,000 CHF after rapid bidding.

Furlan Marri x Dominique Renaud x Tixier Secular Perpetual

This one fetched 130,000 CHF.

Moser x MB&F Panda Collaboration

This unique piece born from a collaboration by independents was sold for 380,000 CHF.

Major Brands Mixed Results:

Louis Vuitton Einstein Automata

Sold for 700,000 CHF, featuring a quirky design of Einstein sticking out his tongue.

Bulgari Octo Finissimo Tourbillon Marble

Went for 190,000 CHF, within its pre-sale estimate range. 

Genta Mickey Mouse

This piece underperformed, fetching only 170,000 CHF against an estimate of 350,000 to 500,000 CHF.

Hublot Takashi Murakami Tourbillon

Sold for 420,000 CHF, exceeding its estimate aswell.

The Only Watch auction showcased some of the most exquisite and unique timepieces in the world but also highlighted the potential and creativity of independent watchmakers. It remains a vital platform for these artists to display innovative designs and craftsmanship, capturing the attention of enthusiasts like ourselves.