PREVIEW: WATCHES: 16 SEPTEMBER

A series of Patek Philippe watches from either end of the 20th century join the highlights in this auction, each one an attractive prospect for bidders.

Retailed by Gondolo & Labouriau of Rio De Janeiro, a gold open-faced keyless Chronometro Gondolo, made around 1913, is the earliest of three. It has a 20’’ moustache lever escapement – typical of this make of watch – and a white enamel dial. The 55.5mm piece is signed to the 18ct gold case, dial, movement and cuvette, and the estimate is £2,000-3,000.

From c.1995 come two Patek Philippe Calatrava gold wristwatches. The first, a manual winding Ref 5096 watch of 18 jewels, stamped with the Seal of Geneva, has a gilt dial and screw-down sapphire crystal display back, showcasing the intricate details of the movement, to the signed 18 carat gold case.

The Patek Philippe reference 5096 was produced for a short period from 1996 to 1999. This Calatrava model derives its inspiration from the original Calatrava reference 96 which was introduced in 1932 and produced until 1973.

Offered with its pouch, it comes with a guide of £6,000-8,000.

The second c.1995 Patek Philippe is a Ref. 3796 Calatrava, again stamped with the Seal of Geneva, and with a silvered dial. It has an 18ct gold, snap-on back and 18ct gold buckle,
and is also signed: case, dial, movement and buckle. Slightly smaller at 31mm in diameter, it too comes with its pouch and is offered at £5,000-7,000.