Rare Patek and Cartier to light up Bonhams sale

Bonhams will hold its “Echoes of Time: Rare Watches from the Pages of History” live auction on 25 November in Hong Kong.

Featuring a collection of historically significant and rare timepieces, the sale is led by two pieces that are celebrated for their unique stories.

Firstly, the Cartier ‘Model A’ Mystery Clock (Circa 1918): This early Art Deco piece features a transparent rock-crystal case where the diamond-set hands appear to levitate, their movement concealed in the base. It was acquired in the 1920s by the renowned Parisian Delion family and is now offered for the first time, with an estimate of HK$2,000,000–4,000,000 (roughly £200,000–£400,000).

The second is a Patek Philippe Ref. 803 Coin Watch. This rare 35mm timepiece is crafted from a United States $20 Double Eagle gold coin dated 1895, featuring a concealed dial. Its historical significance stems from being a birthday gift to His Highness Tunku Abdul Rahman, the first Prime Minister of Malaysia, in 1969. The watch will go on sale with an estimate of HK$100,000–200,000 (approximately £10,000–£20,000).

Sharon Chan, Bonhams’ international director, watches, commented: “This season’s sale is a celebration of horological heritage and artistry. We are pleased to present a selection of timepieces that not only showcase technical mastery and design innovation, but also carry remarkable stories of provenance. 

“From the timeless elegance of Cartier’s ‘Model A’ Mystery Clock to the historical significance of the Patek Philippe coin watch and the debut of a rare Gérald Genta creation, each piece offers collectors a unique opportunity to own a chapter of watchmaking history. We warmly welcome collectors and enthusiasts from around the world to explore these extraordinary treasures.”