DALLAS, TX.- Heritage Auctions realized $3,766,200 in its Nov. 20 Watches & Fine Timepieces Signature® Auction, a sale that showcased a masterfully curated selection of 220 lots spanning the finest in contemporary and vintage horology.
The event, which boasted a 100% sell-through rate, was led by an A. Lange & Söhne Tourbograph "Pour le Mérite" that achieved $250,000, underscoring continued collector demand for complex German watchmaking. One of just 51 pieces made in platinum, the Tourbograph unites three of the most demanding complications in haute horology: a one-minute tourbillon, power equalization with fusée-and-chain transmission, and a split-seconds chronograph. Comprising over 1,065 components, this extraordinary movement represents the apex of precision and craftsmanship, exemplifying Lange's technical mastery and position in the pantheon of fine German watchmaking.
"This auction was a clear reflection of the health of the high-end horological market," said Jim Wolf, Heritage's Director of Watches & Fine Timepieces. "Collectors continue to pursue the finest examples of both traditional and avant-garde watchmaking. The enthusiasm for A. Lange & Söhne and the strong showing from independent brands like Greubel Forsey and Chopard underscore the diversity and strength of today's watch market."
The Greubel Forsey Double Balancier à Différential Constant, Ultra-Fine White Gold Limited Edition Watch No. 16/33 achieved $187,500. With two inclined balance wheels linked by a constant spherical differential and a four-minute constant-force mechanism, the model is a demonstration of Greubel Forsey's dedication to advancing chronometric performance through mechanical innovation. Another Greubel Forsey, a Tourbillon 24 Secondes Contemporain, White Gold, No. 17, brought $162,500.A Chopard, Important 18k White Gold L.U.C. Full Strike Minute Repeater, Ref. 161947-5001 realized $162,500. Crafted in 18k Fairmined white gold, this minute repeater features sapphire crystal gongs and a resonator, resulting in chimes of remarkable purity and tone. With just 20 examples produced, the Full Strike continues to represent one of the most acoustically advanced watches in modern haute horology.
In addition to the leading lots, Rolex continued to assert its position as a cornerstone of collectability. Fifty-one Rolex lots crossed the block, including a Ref. 116508 Green Dial 18k Gold "John Mayer" Cosmograph Daytona that achieved $68,750 and a Ref. 228235 Everose Day-Date Oyster Perpetual that closed at $65,625.
Other top results included, but were not limited to:A Vacheron Constantin 89010/000P-9935 Traditionnelle Platinum 14-Day Tourbillon: $150,000.
A Romain Gauthier "Logical One," Superior Constant-Force Wristwatch: $118,750
A Patek Philippe, Extremely Rare and Desirable Nautilus Chronograph Reference 5980/1A-001 Stainless Steel Wristwatch: $100,000
A Christophe Claret Piece Unique White Gold Flying Tourbillon Watch With "Grand Feu" Enameled Eagle Motif: $52,500