Fine Watch Preview

Looking ahead to the Fine Jewellery, Watches and Silver Sale on 14^th March, Watch Specialist Adam Wasdell has selected his highlights amongst a trove of watches by leading makers such as Rolex, Cartier. Patek Philippe, IWC and Omega.

Cartier watches have long been a favourite at auction, and we are delighted to have consigned for sale a small private collection of Cartier wristwatches all made in the 2000s. The four watches are variations of the Tank Americaine, which was launched by Cartier in 1989. It evolved from the revolutionary Tank Cintrée, which broke all contemporary rules of watch design when it was launched in 1921, with its thin profile, curved case designed to fit the wrist ergonomically, and sleek, strikingly modern lines. More generously proportioned than the Cintrée, the Americaine was the product of a time when large statement watches were in fashion. Whilst it retained the curved face, the back was flat, giving the watch a deeper profile. However, it was still relatively pared back, in line with Cartier’s signature classic design principles.

Cartier: A Fine 18 Carat Gold Square and Baguette-Cut Diamond Set Automatic Calendar Centre Seconds Wristwatch, signed Cartier, model: Tank Americaine, ref: 2345, 2000's

The first watch is a fine 18 carat gold example of the Tank Americaine (ref:2345). The watch is set with square and baguette cut diamonds to both the case and bracelet, applied in the Cartier factory rather than as an after-market modification, adding to its appeal. It is offered with an estimate of £15,000-20,000 (all figures exclude buyer’s premium).

Cartier: A Good 18 Carat White Gold Automatic Calendar Centre Seconds Wristwatch, signed Cartier, model: Tank Americaine, ref: 1741, 2000's

Cartier: A Good 18 Carat Gold Automatic Calendar Centre Seconds Wristwatch, signed Cartier, model: Tank Americaine, ref: 1740, 2000's

Next up are two ‘jumbo’ sized gentleman’s Tank Americaine watches, both with automatic movements. One is an 18 carat white gold example (ref: 1741), and the other is an 18 carat yellow gold example (ref: 1740), each carrying an estimate of £8,000-10,000.

Cartier: A Good Lady's 18 Carat Gold Diamond Set Wristwatch, signed Cartier, model: Tank Americaine, ref: 2482, 2000's

Lastly, there is a good lady’s 18 carat gold Tank Americaine (ref: 2482), with Cartier factory-set diamond bezel and offered with an estimate of £6,000-8,000).

Patek Philippe: An 18 Carat White Gold Wristwatch, signed Patek Philippe, Geneve, model: Calatrava, ref: 3744/1, 1978

Further notable watches in the sale from other renowned makers include a good 18 carat white gold Patek Philippe Calatrava (ref: 3744/1), made in 1978. A fine-looking watch with an attractive clear white dial with Roman numerals, it is sold with the Patek Philippe ‘Extract from the Archives’ paperwork detailing manufacture and date of purchase (estimate: £3,500-4,000).

IWC: A Fine Stainless Steel Kurt Klaus Limited Edition Perpetual Calendar Chronograph Moonphase Display Wristwatch, signed International Watch Company, Schaffhausen, model: Da Vinci Perpetual Calendar Edition Kurt Klaus, ref: 376204, number 0468 of a limited edition of 3000 pieces made to honour the legendary IWC watchmaker Kurt Klaus, circa 2008

Finally, there is an IWC Da Vinci Perpetual Calendar Edition Kurt Klaus wristwatch (ref: 376204), which is a dream watch for the purist collector. This is number 468 of a limited edition of 3000 pieces made to honour the legendary IWC watchmaker Kurt Klaus in 2008. This watch has a perpetual calendar chronograph movement and displays the moonphase on the dial, which is always a very attractive feature (estimate: £5,000-6,000).

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