Here are six more one-of-a-kind timepieces, each with an unusual twist guaranteed to attract bidders to the biennial Only Watch charity auction, this year slated for November 11 at Christie’s in Geneva. In IW’s ongoing Only Watch coverage, you’ll find information about the various watches posted in no particular order. For the complete list visit http://www.onlywatch.com/the-watches.
Andersen Genève
This bi-color “Tempus Terrae” has a white gold bezel, a red gold 39mm case and a white gold hunter caseback. Inside, the automatic movement features a time zones complication module developed and assembled in the Andersen Genève atelier. Only Watch auction estimate: $46,000 - $52,000.
Barbier-Mueller
The Mosaique timepiece features a subtle cloisonné motif that evokes the age-old art of mosaics, and in reference to a pocket watch, the back features a cover that is similarly decorated. When opened, a gold mechanical movement designed by manufacture F.P. Journe is revealed. Only Watch auction estimate: $115,000 - $208,000.
F.P. Journe
The one-of-a-kind Chronographe Monopoussoir Rattrapante is entirely unique, with its 44mm tantalum case, 18-karat rose gold movement with mirror-polished levers and springs and blue chrome dial. A power reserve of 80 hours allows the efficient use the chronograph and the split seconds for an extended period. Only Watch auction estimate: $208,000 - $415,000.
Laurent Ferrier and Urwerk
The Arpal One LF-UR1 is the joint effort of two diverse watchmaking companies: one that takes a traditional approach to watchmaking and one that seeks to challenge conventions. Signed by both Laurent Ferrier and Urwerk, the case is fashioned from an exclusive alloy called ARPAL+, specifically developed for this unique watch. Only Watch auction estimate: $52,000 - $72,000.
Louis Moinet
The Metropolis for Only Watch is a worthy successor to Louis Moinet’s own Compteur de Tierces from 1816, the first chronograph, which was also used for observational astronomy. The 43mm stainless steel watch features an in-house movement, the LM31 caliber. Only Watch auction estimate: $18,000 - $28,000.
Moritz Grossmann
This double auction lot links contemporary design with heritage and comprises an original Moritz Grossmann yellow gold pocket watch from the company’s private collection produced around 1875, and a new rose gold creation with an enamel dial with poire hands to match the original. Only Watch auction estimate: $41,000 - $62,000.