Antiquorum experts are proud to present a curated selection of Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces. More info and the catalogue can be found here.
Lot 245: Rolex Ref. 6098, Oyster Perpetual, property of Dr. Gabriel Chevalley, doctor and head of the 1952 Swiss Everest Expedition
This watch is exceptional in many ways, not only as a historical timepiece but also due to its fascinating provenance. This watch was given to Dr. Gabriel Chevalley, a prominent Swiss doctor and leader of the Autumn 1952 Swiss Everest expedition, in recognition of his courage and dedication in the exploration of one of the world’s most formidable mountains.
Crafted in stainless steel, this 1951 Oyster Perpetual watch is equipped with the self-winding calibre 775 featuring 25 jewels. Its case is marked with the number 846218, and it comes with a leather strap and a stainless steel Rolex buckle. This watch is accompanied by a letter from Rolex dated from 1953, confirming the return of the two watches worn during the expedition and the gift of the present watch to Dr. Chevalley. It is complemented by an array of accessories, including Dr. Chevalley’s eyeglasses, ice picks, crampons, a cap, thermal undergarments, a jacket, maps, photographs, newspaper ar-cles, invita-on leTers, an expedition budget, and various leTers. Additionally, it includes a book signed by all members of the expedition, including Tenzing Norgay.
Dr. Gabriel Chevalley, born in 1918, played a crucial role in both Swiss expeditions to Mount Everest in 1952, both in the spring and fall. As a member of the climbing team during the spring expedition, he risked his life to evacuate the South Col. As the leader of the second expedition, he shouldered enormous responsibilities during a persistent wait amid winter storms. Rolex awarded this watch to Dr. Chevalley for his dedication in these historic journeys.
The Swiss Everest Expedition in 1952 is a fascinating chapter in mountaineering history. It paved the way for further explorations and contributed to the ul-mate ascent of Everest in 1953 by Sir Edmund Hillary and Tenzing Norgay. The Rolex Ref. 6098, with its serial number 846218, was equipped for the first three attempts on Everest in 1952 by the English, French, and Swiss expeditions. The Rolex letter from 1953, still preserved with the watch, confirms the return of the two watches used during the expedition and the gift of the present watch to Dr. Chevalley.
Now being auctioned, this watch is a unique piece of mountaineering and Swiss horological history, offering collectors the opportunity to possess a true historical treasure. Its es-mated value ranges from 20,000 to 40,000 CHF, making it an exceptional opportunity for watch enthusiasts and mountain explora-on enthusiasts to acquire a historic piece.
Lot 360: Mark Guidon Gide & Blondel Fils, Switzerland, ”The Tavern Courtyard”, magnificent and highly important vari-colour gold and enamel automaton snuff box with eleven motion, yellow gold
This magnificent object, over 100 years old, is a true piece of art crafted in 18-carat yellow gold and enamel. It is an exceptional tobacco box adorned with 11 movable figurines, each of which is a work of art in its own right. This tobacco box is a remarkable example of craftsmanship from that era, showcasing the precision and skill of artisans from the past.
The 18-carat yellow gold used for this box lends it timeless elegance, while the enamel adds a touch of colour and exquisite detail. The “Mark Guidon” maker’s hallmark is a sign of quality and authenticity, attesting to the origin and value of this precious item.
This tobacco box is more than just a container; it is a work of art that tells a story from the past. It embodies the craftsmanship of the era and the attention to detail that went into its creation. A true treasure for collectors and enthusiasts of exceptional objects.
Lot 365: Patek Philippe Ref. 865/95 “Romanshorn”, yellow gold, enamel by Suzanne Rohr
Painted by the world’s most renowned enamel artist, Suzanne Rohr, this piece was produced in 1988 and only sold in 1991. Inspired by the Swiss painter J.J. Wetzel, the scene depicts the town of Romanshorn, a small village with 11,000 residents located on Lake Constance in the canton of Thurgau, Switzerland. The scene portrays a choppy lake with a farmer and his daughter, and in the background, the town’s church and castle.
It’s worth no-ng that due to the extreme complexity and detailed work required, Mrs. Rohr produced only about 2 watches per year, and many were never commercially released, being kept by Patek Philippe, as the catalogue lists them in the Patek Philippe Museum, Volume 2, where 25 pieces are listed as part of their inventory. The last Rohr watch offered at auction was sold at An-quorum in May 2022, lot 200, for a world-record price of 937,000 CHF. This is another rare opportunity to acquire a masterpiece in excellent condition, preserved in its pouch and original box.
Model: “Romanshorn”
Year: 1988, sold in June 1991
Reference: 865/95
Movement number: 933305
Calibre: 17-170
Case number: 2831068
Diameter: 48 mm
Signature: Dial, case, and movement signed
Accessories: Original box, black leather pouch, extract from the archives.
Origin: Owned by an American collector.
Suzanne Rohr’s biography
Born in Geneva in 1939, Suzanne Rohr was immersed in the world of arts from a young age. Her talent for painting and drawing drove her to pursue artistic perfection. She received training in enamelling and miniature enamel painting at the School of Decora-ve Arts in Geneva, under the guidance of Elisabeth Juillerat, and earned her federal diploma in 1959, standing out as the sole student in her class. Thanks to her accomplishments, she won the Hans Wilsdorf Founda-on Prize for creating an enamel watch bracelet.
In 1960, Suzanne Rohr opened her own workshop, thus launching her independent career. Over the years, she explored various ar-s-c techniques, creating enamelled jewellery, bowls, and artworks adorned with silver and gold. Her encounter with the Geneva miniaturist Carlo Poluzzi in 1968 marked a turning point in her career. Working closely with him, she perfected her art and dedicated herself to miniature enamel work.
Starting from 1970, Suzanne Rohr established a fruitful collaboration with Patek Philippe, where her talent was widely recognized. She received regular commissions and the unwavering support of the Stern family, who remained loyal to her for nearly four decades. Her art of miniature enamels, characterized by exceptional harmony in form and colour, endured into the 21st century.
In 2017, Suzanne Rohr and her former student Anita Porchet jointly received the Special Jury Prize at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève, a well-deserved recognition for their work of exceptional quality. Suzanne Rohr’s artistic legacy continues to inspire and captivate art and watch enthusiasts worldwide.
Lot 581: Patek Philippe Ref. 3448, in white gold
Freshly discovered! This piece was produced in 586 units from 1962 to 1982, featuring the calibre 27-460 Q. It was primarily made in yellow gold, occasionally in rose gold or white gold. This series began with the serial number 1119000.
The white gold models are among the rarest, with approximately 130 pieces produced, of which around 50 have appeared at auctions. Succeeding the Patek 2499, the 3448 marked a milestone in the Maison’s history by offering a pure, simplified and elegant perpetual calendar wristwatch.
Origina-ng from a Swiss customer, this watch has never been offered at auctions and is in very good condition, with a clear and strong hallmark on the outer case and its original dial.
Year: 197
Movement Nr. : 1119448
Caliber 27-460Q, 37 rubis
Case number: 332604
Bracelet : Leather with an 18-carat white gold Patek Philippe deployant buckle
Diameter: 37 mm
Signature: Dial, case, and movement signed
Accessories: Extract from the archives
Condition: Grade 2-8, Defects 2-8-01, Mechanism 2 stars, Exceptional
Lot 588 – Rolex Ref. 6241, Cosmograph Daytona, champagne dial, white graphics, yellow gold
A truly exceptional find, this 14k yellow gold manual wind chronograph wristwatch by Rolex is a rare gem. The Cosmograph Daytona Reference 6241, crafted around 1967, exudes timeless elegance with its champagne dial and dis-nc-ve white graphics. The watch’s case number 1533951 and its calibre 722 with 17 jewels testify to its Swiss precision and craftsmanship.
This exquisite timepiece comes with a 14k yellow gold riveted Rolex bracelet, adding to its allure. The provenance of this watch adds a touch of history, as it belonged to a German lady. Its exceptional condition places it within the upper echelons of collectible watches.
Produced specifically for the US market, this 6241 boasts a movement stamped for the American market, denoted as “ROW.” What sets this version apart is the striking white graphics, a rarity that enhances its desirability among collectors.
Brand: Rolex, Switzerland
Model: Cosmograph Daytona
Reference: 6241
Year: Circa 1967
Case: 1533951
Caliber: 722, 17 jewels
Bracelet: 14k yellow gold riveted Rolex bracelet, approx. overall length 180 mm.
Diameter: 36
Signature: Dial, case and movement signed
Accessories: fitted box Provenance: Property of a German lady
Grading System: EXCEPTIONAL
Case: 3-8 (Good, Slightly scratched)
Dial: 2-01 (Very good, HANDS Original)
Movement: 3 * (Good, Overhaul recommended, at buyer’s expense)
Patek Philippe Ref. 4016/1, baguette sapphire and diamonds, yellow and white gold
An an exceptional, possibly unique, 18k yellow and white gold, manual wind lady’s diamond and sapphire set wristwatch with sapphire-set blue concealed dial
Elaborate jewellery timepieces by Patek Philippe are extremely rare and some of the most impressive were made in very few pieces if not unique. In fact, research has shown that this is the only reference 4016 to have appeared on the market. The yellow gold Patek Philippe bracelet is set with baguette sapphire diamonds that matches the hinged cover that is further surrounded by a white gold triangular frame set with baguette, marquise and round diamonds representing flowers.
Brand: Patek Philippe, Switzerland
Reference: 4016/1
Year: 1974, sold in April 1977
Case: 2666522
Movement: 1249202
Caliber: 13,5
Bracelet: 18k yellow gold baguette sapphire set Patek Philippe bracelet, approx. overall length 170 mm.
Diameter: 16
Signature: Dial, case and movement signed
Accesories: Extract from the archives
Provenance: Property of a Middle Eastern lady
Grading System: EXCEPTIONAL
Case: 3-8 (Good , Slightly scratched)
Dial: 2-01 (Very good , HANDS Original)
Movement: 2* (Very good , Overhaul recommended, at buyer’s expense)
EUR: 42,100 – 64,000
USD: 44,300 – 67,000
HKD: 348,000 – 520,000
Lot 165 – F.P. Journe Octa Auto Lune, No. 001, Platinum
Sold new in May 2021, the watch has been kept in close to new condition, only having been worn a few times and has the serial number 001.
A fine, attractive, platinum, self winding wristwatch with date, power reserve and moonphase.
Brand: F.P. Journe, Switzerland
Model: OCTA AUTO LUNE
Year: Sold in May 2021
Case: 001-AL2
Caliber: 1300.3, 40 jewels
Bracelet: leather with a platinum FP Journe buckle
Diameter: 40
Signature: Dial, case and movement signed
Accesories: Original fitted box, warranty card, USB user manual key, travel pouch and cloth
Provenance: Property of a Swiss Gentleman
Grading System: EXCEPTIONAL
Case: 1-8 (As new , Slightly scratched)
Dial: 1-01 (As new , HANDS Original)
Movement: 1 (As new)
EUR: 53,000 – 106,000
USD: 56,000 – 112,000
HKD: 434,000 – 870,000
Gallery and other pieces
