Timepieces Auction
The history of timepieces dates back to ancient civilizations, where sundials and water clocks were used to measure time. In the 16th century, the invention of the mechanical clock revolutionized timekeeping, making it more accurate and reliable. The pocket watch, which could be carried on the person, was invented in the 16th century and became popular among the upper class. In the late 19th century, the wristwatch was invented and became popular among soldiers during World War I. Today, timepieces come in a wide variety of forms, from traditional mechanical watches to digital and smartwatches.
Ten more important timepieces in the historyThe Antikythera mechanism (150-100 BCE) - an ancient Greek mechanical device used to predict astronomical positions and eclipses for calendrical and astrological purposes.The Astronomical clock of the St. Albans Abbey (13th century) - one of the oldest surviving mechanical clocks in the world, it features a complex system of gears and displays the time, the motions of the sun, moon, and stars.The Nuremberg Egg (1510) - a small, ornate, portable spring-driven clock made in Germany.The Harrison H4 Chronometer (1761) - a marine chronometer invented by John Harrison, considered the first successful marine chronometer and greatly improved navigation at sea.The Breguet Sympathique (1827) - a clock-watch combination invented by Abraham-Louis Breguet, which could be wound and set using a separate key.The Patek Philippe Calibre 89 (1989) - a complex mechanical watch with 33 complications, including a star chart, perpetual calendar, and thermometer.The Omega Speedmaster (1957) - a chronograph watch worn by astronauts on several NASA space missions, including the first moon landing.The Rolex Submariner (1953) - a dive watch that set the standard for water-resistant watches.The Quartz Revolution (1969-70) - the introduction of quartz-crystal watches led to a dramatic increase in accuracy and a decrease in price, making watches more accessible to the general public.The Apple Watch (2015) - a smartwatch that popularized the use of wearable technology for fitness tracking, messaging, and other features beyond timekeeping.
Auction of timepiecesAuction of timepieces, also known as watch auctions, are events where rare, collectible, and valuable timepieces are sold to the highest bidder. These auctions can take place in person or online, and are typically conducted by specialized auction houses or watch dealers.Some notable auction houses that specialize in timepieces include:Christie's: A well-established auction house that holds regular watch auctions in various locations around the world.Sotheby's: Another well-known auction house that holds regular watch auctions, with a strong focus on vintage and historical timepieces.Phillips: A leading auction house for contemporary and vintage timepieces, with a focus on unique and collectible watches.Antiquorum: A specialist auction house for vintage and collectible timepieces, with a strong focus on Patek Philippe and Rolex watches.During a watch auction, bidders can participate in person, by phone, or online. The watches on offer are usually catalogued and available for viewing prior to the auction, and some houses will also provide a condition report and other information to help buyers make informed decisions. The prices realized at auction can be significantly higher than the retail prices for the same models, due to the rarity and desirability of the timepieces on offer.