Watches are not just a timekeeping device, but also a symbol of luxury and status. There are some watches that are so rare and exquisite that they have sold for millions of dollars. In this article, we will explore the most expensive watches ever sold.
First on our list is the Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime Ref. 6300A-010, which sold for $31 million at a charity auction in 2019. This watch is made of stainless steel and features 20 complications, including a perpetual calendar and a minute repeater.
Next up is the Paul Newman Rolex Daytona, which sold for $17.8 million in 2017. This watch was owned by the actor Paul Newman and is known for its exotic dial design and rare stainless steel case.
Third on our list is the Patek Philippe Henry Graves Supercomplication, which sold for $24 million at a Sotheby’s auction in 2014. This pocket watch was made in 1933 for the banker Henry Graves Jr. and features 24 complications, including a celestial chart of New York City.
Fourth is the Breguet Grande Complication Marie-Antoinette, which sold for $30 million in 2008. This pocket watch was made for the French queen Marie Antoinette in the 18th century and took 44 years to complete.
Fifth on our list is the Rolex Bao Dai, which sold for $5 million at a Phillips auction in 2017. This watch was owned by the last emperor of Vietnam and features a rare black dial and diamond hour markers.
Sixth is the Patek Philippe Ref. 1518 in stainless steel, which sold for $11 million in 2016. This watch is one of only four known to exist and features a perpetual calendar and chronograph.
Seventh on our list is the Rolex Daytona “Lesson One” Paul Newman, which sold for $17.7 million at a Phillips auction in 2020. This watch is known for its unique dial design and was owned by the actor Paul Newman.
Eighth is the Patek Philippe Ref. 1527, which sold for $5.7 million at a Christie’s auction in 2010. This watch is one of only two known to exist and features a perpetual calendar, moon phase display, and chronograph.
Ninth on our list is the Vacheron Constantin 57260, which sold for an undisclosed amount in 2015. This pocket watch features 57 complications, including a Hebrew calendar and a celestial chart of the night sky over Geneva.
Finally, we have the Jaeger-LeCoultre Hybris Mechanica Grande Sonnerie, which sold for $2.5 million in 2014. This watch features a minute repeater, perpetual calendar, and a tourbillon.
In conclusion, the world’s most expensive watches are not just timepieces, but works of art and engineering. These watches have sold for millions of dollars at auctions and are a testament to the craftsmanship and design that goes into luxury watches.