HONG KONG.- Sotheby’s announced the appointment of Charles Tearle as Director, Head of Watches, Asia. Mr. Tearle will be based in Hong Kong, working closely with Tim Bourne, Worldwide Head of Watches, as well as an international team of specialists, in driving Sotheby’s business in auctions and private sales of watches in Asia.

A reputed watch specialist with over 20 years of experience encompassing both retail and auction aspects of the international watch market, Mr. Tearle has played significant roles in major auction houses, founding and leading watch and clock departments in the United Kingdom, the United States as well as heading the Asian division of an auction house specialising in horology.

Vanessa Herrera, former Head of Watches, Asia, will be taking on a new and expanded role as Business Manager for Watches as well as other auction categories. She will continue to work closely with Tim Bourne and Charles Tearle to develop the strategy for Sotheby’s watch business in Asia.

Another strong addition to Sotheby’s global watch team, Thomas Perazzi, appointed Deputy Director of the European Watch Department, joins Sotheby’s from his position as specialist at an auction house specialising in horology. Mr. Perazzi began his career in the industry in 2006, further developing his strong interest in Omega and Rolex watches as well as vintage wristwatches made between 1940 and 1970. Mr. Perazzi will strengthen Sotheby’s existing team in Europe with his solid expertise and strong relations to Italy, a key centre in the watch auction market in Europe.

Tim Bourne, Worldwide Head of Watches, notes, “After a very successful five-year tenure as Head of Watches in Hong Kong, Vanessa will further develop her management and client service skills. We congratulate her on her new role where she will continue to work closely with the department in strengthening our watch business in Asia. I have known Charles for nearly two decades within the watch industry and admired his considerable acumen in the auction business. He is joining a very creative and innovative international team and we are all thrilled about the exciting development of Sotheby’s Watch department. I am

delighted to welcome him as a colleague. Thomas Perazzi will be bringing a depth of knowledge and significant client experience, especially in Italy. I very much look forward to working closely with him and Geoffroy Ader, our European Head of Department.”

Charles Tearle, Head of Watches, Asia, enthuses, “I am very pleased to be joining Tim Bourne and Sotheby’s world-renowned team of watch specialists. I feel the department is in a unique position to offer valuable advice to both seasoned and new collectors on a global scale, with a combined experience in the watch market that has no rival in the auction world.”

Together, Mr. Tearle and Mr. Perazzi will further strengthen Sotheby’s watch business worldwide by working closely with the international team of watch specialists, reporting to Tim Bourne, Worldwide Head of Watches.