So earlier this week Tom profiled 5 men’s watches to watch in the upcoming Christie’s Important Watches Auction, but what about us ladies?
As usual we have once again been overlooked by the press at auction time, and so I have taken it upon myself to bring you a selection of 5 ladies pieces in tomorrow’s auction here in New York that I really like. They’re not necessarily the most expensive or the most glamorous but I do believe each offers something a little different to help you stand out from the crowd. Plus, who says you have to limit yourself to buying just one?
Lot. 43 – Vacheron Constantin Diamond-set Skeletonized Watch Circa. 1986
The first piece on my list is a bit of a no-brainer. Crafted by the prestigious watchmaker Vacheron Constantin back in 1986, this delicate timepiece offers three features that I absolutely love; 18k gold, a skeletonized movement and of course, everybody’s favorite, diamonds! The level of decoration on the dial is simply breathtaking, and is only enhanced further by the diamond set bezel and cabochon sapphire-set crown. At just 25.5mm it definitely wear small (even on my dainty wrists) but its attention-grabbing good looks more than make up for that.
Estimate: US$10,000 – US$15,000
Lot. 274 – Cartier 18k White Gold Tank Americaine Circa. 2005
I believe every woman should have at least one classic Cartier timepiece in her collection, and what better than the timeless Tank Americaine? This particular edition is from 2005 and features a stylish 18k white gold case paired with a gorgeous blue leather strap. The case could do with a bit of a professional polish or you could just leave it as is and use it as an everyday watch. Whatever you choose you’re not going to go wrong with this little style icon.
Estimate: US$2,000 – US$4,000
Lot. 336 – Omega Ref. 8121 Circa. 1967
Another classic design, this time from Omega, in the form of this distinctive looking, square-shaped Ref. 8121 from 1967. Although not technically classified as a ladies watch, I love the look and feel of this watch on the wrist. Maybe it’s the hint of masculinity in the design, or the solid feel of the 18k gold case, I’m not sure but something just really draws me to this minimalist piece. Plus if you ever get tired of it you could always trade it with your other half for something different to wear.
Estimate: US$4,000 – US$6,000
Lot. 161 – Chanel J12 White Gold and Ceramic Automatic Circa. 2008
What can I say about the now iconic Chanel J12 that hasn’t already been said? Love it or hate it, this watch caused a revolution in the fashion industry when it was first launched in 2000, sending other brands scrambling to copy its distinct profile. This particular model, one of a limited edition of just 50 pieces, is even more eye-catching thanks to a dial set with approximately 2.06 carats of diamonds and 0.41 carats of rubies paired with an 18k white gold case and black ceramic case and bracelet.
Estimate: US$25,000 – US$35,000
Lot. 153 – Omega 18k Gold and Diamond-Set Cuff Bracelet Circa. 1970
I chose this last piece simply because it is so unlike anything I have seen or worn before. The watch itself is nothing special per se but it’s presented on a gorgeous (and flexible) 18k gold cuff bracelet, which makes a real statement on the wrist. Contrasting against the gold is the eye-catching dial crafted from malachite (a gemstone said to protect the wearer from accidents), which itself is surrounded by diamonds. Very retro.
Estimate: US$5,000 – US$7,000
The Christie’s Important Watches auction will be held on June 11th here in New York City. For more information please visit the official Christie’s website.
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