If you’re a regular auction bidder, then you probably know the name John Pye already. They’re the UK’s largest commercial auction houses, with over 60 salerooms across England, Scotland, Wales and Europe. As part of their luxury auctions, they offer a range of high-end wristwatches with their next Luxury Watch Auction going live online on June 6th. Let’s take a look at three of the highlight lots.
Patek Philippe Nautilus 5980/1R
The Nautilus 5980/1R saw a surge of interest at the start of 2024 after new broke that Patek Philippe were discontinuing the model. After a price decline over the last 12 months, it saw its first price increase from April to May 2024, implying that now is the perfect time to invest ahead of a possible bounce back. It’s a sleek rose gold chronograph with a black dial in the classic Nautilus porthole shape. Powering it is the calibre CH 28-520.
Estimate: Up to £100,000
Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1R
Speaking of discontinued Nautili, the 5711 is the highest profile Patek Philippe Nautilus to disappear in recent years. However, this particular example is very different from the restrained steel timepiece that collectors will be familiar with – instead dressing the model in a full array of aftermarket haute jewellery. The striking contrast between the white gems and rose gold case gives the piece a unique appearance, reminiscent of bi-colour. It houses the calibre 324 with 45-hour power reserve.
Estimate: Up to £90,000
Rolex Sky-Dweller 326933
The Sky-Dweller is Rolex’s interpretation of a travel complication, featuring a 24-hour indicator off-set towards 6 o’clock. It’s often presented on an oysterflex bracelet for a sporty vibe, but not so here as a previous owner has dialled the luxe up to 11 with aftermarket diamonds coating the Rolesor case, bezel and bracelet. The 326933 houses the Rolex calibre 9001 with 72-hour power reserve and +/-2 seconds per day accuracy. This model was discontinued in 2023, further heightening the interest.
Estimate: Up to £30,000
Discover the auction and register to bid at John Pye Luxury Watch Auction.
