Insider Spotlight
The event gathers pieces that bridge design innovation, technical mastery, and historical legacy — from Cartier’s ethereal Art Deco creations to Patek Philippe’s diplomatic treasures, Bonhams announced in a press release.
A floating marvel of Art Deco innovation
Leading the sale is the Cartier ‘Model A’ Mystery Clock, crafted circa 1918. A visual triumph of early Art Deco design, it features a transparent rock-crystal case on a white agate base, adorned with gold, enamel, mother-of-pearl, onyx, and diamonds.
Its ingenious manual-wind movement, hidden within the base, drives crystal discs that make the diamond-set hands appear to float — an illusion that captivated 20th-century collectors.
Once the centerpiece of the Delion family’s Paris residence, the clock carries an estimate of HK$2,000,000–4,000,000 (about P15,100,000–P30,200,000)
A gift of legacy and diplomacy
Among the most historically resonant lots is the Patek Philippe Ref. 803 Double Eagle Coin Watch, a rare 35mm timepiece housed in an 1895 U.S. $20 gold coin. Concealing its dial behind the coin’s façade, the watch was gifted in 1969 to His Highness Tunku Abdul Rahman, Malaysia’s first prime minister. Estimate: HK$100,000–200,000 (about P5,896,000–P11,792,000)
Contemporary icons
Bonhams also showcases three exceptional Richard Mille pieces, including the Ref. RM011 AH WG (limited to 10), the Lee Chong Wei “King of Badminton” edition, and the jewel-toned RM007 “Rainbow.”
Completing the sale are a Gérald Genta perpetual calendar minute repeater and a series of neo-vintage gold watches by Rolex, Piaget, and Audemars Piguet, symbolizing enduring value and craftsmanship.
Golden age returns
With gold prices climbing and interest in tangible assets growing, gold watches have reemerged as coveted wearable investments—blending intrinsic value, timeless design, and enduring collectability, Bonhams said in the press statement.
Long celebrated as symbols of prestige and permanence—from the mid-century rise of solid gold dress watches to the bold, sculptural creations of the 1970s and ’80s—these neo-vintage icons are being rediscovered by a new generation of collectors drawn to their craftsmanship, rarity, and lasting allure. —Ramon C. Nocon | Ed: Corrie S. Narisma
