DOHA.- For the first time, Sotheby’s, one of the world’s leading international auction houses, is to participate at 19th International Arabian Horse Show (February 21-23, 2010) bringing to Qatar select highlights from a single–owner collection of 19th and 20th century jewels, together with watches that showcase the exceptional capability of the world’s finest watchmakers, as well as a group of senior specialists and executives.

Roberta Louckx, Executive Vice-President, Sotheby’s, who has been at the forefront of Sotheby’s activities in the Middle East/Gulf for many years, says: “We are delighted to launch our 2010 programme of activity at this Show. Sotheby’s has a long-standing history with the Middle East dating back to 1755 and going forward we are determined to build further our rapport with collectors and enthusiasts across all categories in the region.”

“The Show has particular relevance for us Sotheby’s as it was through a series of six pioneering Arabian horse sales - staged under my aegis in the United States between 1989 and 1993 - that we came to form many of the relationships we continue to enjoy with major collectors and breeders of Arabian racehorses throughout the Middle East and especially in Qatar.”

Items on display can be viewed and handled by interested parties, with Lisa Hubbard, Chairman, North & South America, International Jewellery Division present to provide expert advice and insights. She comments: “There is growing interest in our Jewellery and Watch auctions from the Middle East and pieces have been carefully selected from an incredible collection both to highlight the strength of sale in New York and to appeal to potential collectors and buyers in this market.”

Highlights on view in Doha will date from the Belle Epoque and Art Deco periods as well as the stylized 1940s, 1950s and 1960s. Typical of the period jewels on display is the Falconry Brooch made by Cartier, Paris, in the 1940s (est. $7,500- 10,000, illustrated left). Complementing the selection of 20 period jewels is an array of modern pieces including the impressive emerald bead and diamond necklace (est. $150,000-200,000).

Among the watches on display will be rare models by Patek Philippe and A. Lange & Shne, two of the most celebrated names in the field. A Platinum Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Wristwatch is included by the latter with Moon-Phases, Leap Year and Day-Night Indication, register and tachometer scale, Datograph Perpetual (est. $50,000 – 70,000).

Visitors to the stand can learn more of Sotheby’s operations both worldwide and in Qatar, seek advice on developing a collecting interest, valuations and consignment. Private appointments and consultations can be booked in advance by emailing Qatar@sothebys.com or by calling Sotheby’s Qatar office tel: 4528333.

Sotheby’s will be located in the tented village during the 19th International Arabian Horse Show, at Qatar Racing & Equestrian Club. Show hours are 9am – 8pm, February 21 & 22 and 9am - 1.30pm on Wednesday, February 23, 2010.