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From coveted Patek Philippes to the innovative creations of Richard Mille, we explore Sotheby’s digital realm to uncover the pinnacle of wrist-bound luxury.
In the sphere of elite collecting, there’s “luxury,” and then there’s the Sotheby’s Buy Now marketplace—a refined space where a six-figure price merely serves as a gateway. While the auction block captures attention, the private sales arena is where true collectors embark on quests for rare finds.
To streamline your search, we’ve handpicked the highlights of the current collection. For diversity, we’ve selected one exceptional piece from each brand. Whether it’s understated platinum or extravagant diamond accents, these are the ten most expensive timepieces available at Sotheby’s right now.
This is your exclusive guide for watching the world of luxury.
The Connoisseur’s Choice
- Price: $870,600
- The Essence: Horological artistry
If you understand the allure, you know that François-Paul Journe stands out among independent watchmakers. The Résonance is his signature creation. Utilizing two balance wheels that beat in synchronicity to boost accuracy, this 38mm platinum wonder is as much about physics as it is about function. Dating back to 2004, it encapsulates the “golden age” of Journe.
The Ultra-Light Heavyweight
- Price: $478,400
- The Essence: Racing spirit on the wrist
Richard Mille creates more than watches; they design racing machines for your wrist. The RM 67-02, a tribute to rally champion Sebastien Ogier, is constructed from TPT carbon and quartz. Remarkably lightweight yet exceptionally resilient, it showcases the iconic RM design that signals achievement.
The Poet’s Perpetual
- Price: $347,100
- The Essence: Celestial cartography in pink gold
Patek Philippe doesn’t merely track time; they chart the cosmos. The Celestial features a dial showcasing the Northern Hemisphere sky chart, lunar phases, and the meridian path of Sirius. It’s a poetic and astronomical complication, reminding the wearer that time is written in the stars.
The Wild Card
- Price: $303,800
- The Essence: Daring extravagance
Forget the understated “Steel Professional”; this is Rolex at its most vibrant. Dubbed the ‘Giraffe’ due to its unique diamond-set dial and warm rose gold accents, this unworn 2024 model is for collectors who find the typical Daytona too understated. It’s bold, it’s rare, and it commands attention.
The Jewelry Hybrid
- Price: $273,250
- The Essence: Ready for the red carpet
Piaget has famously blurred the lines between master watchmaker and master jeweler. The Limelight is a white gold and diamond bracelet watch that serves as high jewelry first, and a timepiece second. It’s a time-honored piece of elegance from 2018 that stands the test of time.
The Genta Evolution
- Price: $268,800
- The Essence: Royalty in rose gold
The Royal Oak remains the most pivotal watch design of the last five decades. This iteration elevates the classic with a flying tourbillon at 6 o’clock and a full 18k rose gold case. It skillfully merges the integrated-bracelet sports watch aesthetic with intricate “Grand Horlogerie” complexities.
The German Precision
- Price: $205,600
- The Essence: Industrial sophistication
Glashütte’s flagship, the Zeitwerk is renowned for its unique digital “jumping hour” display. This ‘Striking Time’ limited edition features an audible chime that signifies the hours and quarter-hours. Constructed in 44mm platinum, it possesses the heft of machinery, yet showcases the delicate craftsmanship typical of masterpiece instruments.
The Sci-Fi Classic
- Price: $151,800
- Essence: Steampunk aesthetic
Max Büsser and Friends (MB&F) are celebrated for their “Horological Machines,” and the Legacy Machine series envisions what a watch might have appeared like a century ago if designed by a visionary. This semi-skeletonized perpetual calendar features a captivating assembly of gears and bridges beneath a high-domed sapphire cover.
The Art Piece
- Price: $135,000
- The Essence: Belle Époque’s bestiary
Cartier’s “Animal” series epitomizes their creative jewelry division’s pinnacle. This 2024 piece brilliantly employs diamonds and gemstones to construct a sculptural form that manages to tell time. It underscores Cartier’s standing as the “King of Jewelers.”
The Indie Icon
- Price: $131,500
- The Essence: Futuristic elegance
De Bethune represents the insiders’ choice. The DB28 GS “John Player Special,” inspired by the iconic black-and-gold Lotus F1 livery, features floating lugs and a zirconium case. It resembles an object from a sci-fi film, yet offers an incredible comfort that belies its avant-garde design.
