This spring’s major watch auction is coming up

Read about the highlights at Important Timepieces

Bukowskis' internationally recognized watch auction Important Timepieces is opening the 4th of April. The auction incorporates a great deal of exclusive, rare and high-quality collector's watches. Here, Bukowskis' specialist on watches, Carl Palmegren on what to keep in mind when investing in a vintage watch, sought-after watches and watches with an intriguing provenance.

Many dream about investing in a vintage watch, what should you keep in mind prior to bidding in?
I would say it is key to find a watch that suits you and your style. Look for quality rather than the best price i.e. go for a watch in a very good condition in the lower price range rather than a watch with a higher price tag and poorer quality. Also, do the research before you settle for a watch and take the opportunity to visit the Important Timepieces viewing in order to try the watch. Visiting the viewing will also give you a chance to have a chat with the specialists and find out more about the watch you are looking for.

Which watches are the most sought-after right now?
Stainless steel watches and sport watches are very highly regarded and demanded, especially the ones with ”complications” and older chronographs. Two styles that stands out among the demand are Patek Philippe Nautilus and Rolex Daytona, and the classic sport watches that are classic in its features, won’t go out of style and are collectors objects.

There are many highly regarded watches in the auction, are there any with an extra intriguing provenance?
Definitely, OMEGA Seamaster 300 is one amongst many. This originates from the first series dating back to the 50s. It is a clean and sleek diving watch and this piece's provenance traces back to a divers wrist during his whole career. We are also very pleased to present a rare Omega Seamaster Polaris, that belonged to one of one of the worlds greatest jazz musicians, the clarinetist, Putte Wickman. This one-of-a-kind electronic master clock system was crafted by Patek Philippe of Geneva in the 70s and is really rare on the market and there are very few in edition. The master system consists of a master clock with a number of slave clocks and were used in airports, train stations, fabrics and smaller locations.

Bukowskis specialist on watches, Carl Palmegren picks a few favourite lots in the auction;

Rolex Daytona – estimate SEK 400 000
This Rolex Daytona is one of the auction's highest estimate and the most important model Rolex has ever produced. During the last years, the demand on vintage models have increased and you may need to need to hold your place in line for up to 10 years before you can get your hands on a new one. This rare and attractive piece have been with the same owner the entire time and was purchased in the early 70s. It is preserved in great original condition.

Rolex Daytona ”Patrizzi dial” – estimate SEK 250 000
Another Daytona from Rolex that dates back to 1995. This piece is very rare with its so-called "Patrizzi dial" – an attractive dial patinated in brown. It is very rare since it is only a few pieces that you could see its sub dials change color to brown during a few years.

Rolex Milgauss – estimate SEK 250 000
A Rolex Milgauss from the 80s is yet another of the top lots of the auction, ref. 1019. It is in a very good original condition since it has barely been worn by its owner and comes with the original box and certificate. The reliability and precision of an ordinary mechanical watch can be affected by a magnetic field of 50 to 100 gauss.The Rolex Milgauss was designed to meet the demands of the scientific community of withstanding magnetic fields of up to 1,000 gauss. Hence the name of the watch, mille being French for thousand.

Patek Philippe, 150th Anniversary – estimate SEK 200 000
This Patek Philippe, ref. 3960, is definitely one of the highlights and marks Patek Philippe's 150th anniversary in 1989. It is limited to only 150 pieces and Patek Philippe has been very restrictive releasing limited editions. It is a classic watch that is great paired with both a suit or a more casual look. Additionaly, it is an attractive collector’s object.

Omega Speedmaster – estimate SEK 50 000
Last but not least the Omega Speedmaster, ref 105.102, makes for a classic and timeless watch. This watch’s serial number is very close to the one that was on Neil Armstrong’s wrist when he landed on the lunar surface with Apollo 11 in 1969. It also adds something that this year is marking the 50 years since the lunar landing.

When is the viewing and auction?

Viewing: April 4th–8th at Berzelii Park 1 in Stockholm
Auction: April 9th at Arsenalsgatan 2 in Stockholm