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Bvlgari & MB&F Reimagine the Iconic Serpenti

Collaborations in watchmaking often bring together the creativity of a brand and its chosen partner, whether they be artists, athletes, or designers. However, it’s far rarer to see two well-known watchmaking powerhouses join forces. The partnership between Bvlgari and MB&F is a fascinating case, as both brands serve as creative forces in the industry with anything they put their hands on. 

Their latest collaboration, the Bvlgari x MB&F Serpenti, follows their 2021 partnership, which resulted in the MB&F x Bvlgari LM FlyingT Allegra launched at Dubai Watch Week. This time, the two brands reinterpret Bvlgari’s iconic Serpenti through the mechanical artistry of MB&F’s horological machines, merging biomorphic design with high-complication watchmaking in a way that only they can.

Auction Top 10 Watches from Phillips XIX Geneva Auction

Highlighting some of the rarest and most limited pieces of the auction

Phillips exceeded expectations at The Geneva Watch Auction: XIX Featuring the Guido Mondani Collection, achieving CHF 35,959,720, approximately AED 145,663,560, surpassing the projected high estimate of CHF 35.1 million, approximately AED 142,181,000. The auction, held on Saturday, May 11, and Sunday, May 12, 2024, attracted significant interest from collectors and enthusiasts across 72 countries worldwide.

With over 450 collectors present at Hotel President Geneva and an additional 1,500 bidders participating online, half of the offered lots were successfully acquired. 

One of the most anticipated lots was the Patek Philippe Ref. 2523/1, a rare yellow gold world time wristwatch adorned with two crowns, a guilloché dial, and a metallic city ring. With an estimated value ranging from CHF 1.2 million to 2.4 million, the bidding culminated in an astounding CHF 1,400,000, which is approximately AED 5,672,895. 

Another notable piece was the Rolex Ref. 6241 "John Player Special," a striking 14K yellow gold chronograph wristwatch featuring the coveted black "Paul Newman" dial and bracelet. Its estimated bid was CHF 500,000 to 1,000,000, and it was sold for CHF 1,050,000, equivalent to AED 4,253,507.

Breaking records was not limited to Patek Philippe and Rolex, as evidenced by the sale of the the Rolex Ref. 6102, an exceptionally rare and well preserved yellow gold wristwatch adorned with a cloisonné enamel dial depicting a caravel, achieved a remarkable feat at the auction, setting a world record for the reference. With an estimated value of CHF 400,000 to 800,000, this timepiece was sold for CHF 1,270,000, equivalent to AED 5,134,000.  

The Patek Philippe Ref. 3670A-001. A stainless-steel limited-edition chronograph, one of only 16 ever produced, had an estimated price of CHF 500,000 to 1,000,000, and was sold at CHF 1,168,400, equivalent to AED 4,732,423 setting a new world record for the reference. 

Other standout pieces included the Rexhep Rexhepi Ref. RRCC1, an exceptionally rare platinum wristwatch featuring a white Grand Feu enamel dial, had an estimated price between CHF 500,000 to 1,000,000, achieving a world record for the model at CHF 920,000, which is equivalent to AED 3,727,112. 

The Rolex Ref. 6269 Cosmograph is an exquisite yellow gold chronograph wristwatch adorned with diamonds and sapphire-set numerals. With an estimated value ranging from CHF 600,000 to 1,200,000, this exclusive timepiece found a new home at CHF 750,000, equivalent to AED 3,038,000. 

Patek Philippe also made its mark with the Ref. 1518, a sought-after yellow gold perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch featuring moon phases. Highly prized by collectors, this rare piece, with an estimated value of CHF 400,000 to 800,000, commanded a final bid of CHF 736,600, equiviant to AED 2,978,629.

The auction included the Akrivia Ref. AK-05, a titanium tourbillon wristwatch distinguished by its hand-hammered dial and exquisite craftsmanship. With an estimated value of CHF 300,000 to 600,000, this rare timepiece was sold for CHF 635,000, equivalent to AED 2,571,733. 

Among the offerings was the Rolex Ref. 6036 "Jean-Claude Killy," a rare 36mm pink gold triple calendar chronograph wristwatch complete with a bracelet and guarantee. With an estimated value of CHF 400,000 to 800,000, this elegant timepiece garnered significant interest, ultimately selling for CHF 609,600, equivalent to AED 2,470,000.

Rolex Ref. 1665 Sea Dweller "Khanjar," a rare stainless steel wristwatch crafted for the Sultan of Oman. With an estimated value of CHF 200,000 to 400,000, this historically significant timepiece achieved a final bid of CHF 584,200, equiviant to AED 2,367,000. 

The auction's success underscored the enduring appeal of fine timepieces, with collectors and enthusiasts from around the world eagerly vying for these exceptional watches. As Phillips continues to curate remarkable auctions, the legacy of these iconic timepieces will undoubtedly endure for generations to come.

For more information please visit Phillips official website. 


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