The top lot of the sale was an extremely rare and eye catching 18K Gold Automatic Triple Calendar Wristwatch with Star Dial and Moonphase, Rolex Ref. 6062, the 1952, which made $1.572.500, setting a new record for a yellow gold Rolex Ref. 6062 with a silver dial. This superlative 6062 “Stelline” or “Star Dial” was introduced in 1950 and produced for just 10 years. Nicknamed “The Dark Star”, this watch has developed a dark patina over time in its 18K yellow gold case, a unique feature of this important lot.
Other notable achievements include a 14K gold Rolex chronograph wristwatch with black “John Player Special Paul Newman” dial and bracelet, ref. 6241, circa 1968, which sold for $552.500;
A Rolex stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with dial and braceletPaul Newman“, reference 6264, circa 1971, with box and papers, realizing $275.000; e A Tornek-Rayville Extremely rare stainless steel automatic anti-magnetic diver's wristwatch, made for the US Navy, circa 1965, ref. TR-900, which sold for $156,250, setting a new record for the reference.
The selection of notable Patek Philippe watches from Property of a North American Family did exceptionally well, with a very fine and extremely rare 18K gold Perpetual wristwatch with center seconds and moonphase, ref. 2438/1, manufactured in 1954, sold for $348.500. Other highlights from Patek have included a very fine and rare 18K Gold Perpetual Chronograph Moonphase wristwatch, Ref. 2499/100, manufactured in 1982, sold for $504,500; and a fine and rare Breguet numerals and moonphase platinum perpetual cushion chronograph wristwatch, ref. 5020P, manufactured in 2001, which made $312.500.
In addition, the now historic Audemars Frères 18mm gold case quarter repeater pocket watch, formerly owned by the former US president, Franklin D. Roosevelt, circa 1900, fetched $62.500, more than doubling his low estimate.
cover image: “THE DARK STAR” ROLEX. An Extremely Fine, Rare and Attractive 18K Gold Automatic Triple Calendar Wristwatch with Star Dial and Moon Phases, 1952, Reference 6062.
