In the world of luxury watches, some timepieces go beyond just telling time—they become symbols of art, craftsmanship, and history. These watches, often sold at high-profile auctions, fetch jaw-dropping prices because of their rarity, historical significance, and the incredible skill it takes to create them.
Let’s take a closer look at the 10 most expensive watches ever sold at auction. Each one is a masterpiece in its own right, representing the perfect mix of luxury, precision, and exclusivity. These watches have not only captivated collectors but have also become symbols of prestige and timeless elegance.
1. Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime Ref. 6300A-010 - 31 Million USD
Selling for an astounding CHF 31 million, this timepiece holds the title of The Most Expensive Watch In The World, making headlines at the 2019 auction. Originally introduced in 2014 to celebrate Patek Philippe's 175th anniversary, the Grandmaster Chime is a masterpiece of horological engineering. It first appeared as a white-gold version in 2016, and quickly became a coveted piece in the brand's collection.
This remarkable watch boasts 20 intricate complications, including five acoustic functions that demonstrate the pinnacle of craftsmanship. Among these, the patented alarm and date repeater are standout features, showcasing the watch’s precision and innovation.
The Ref. 6300A-010, crafted exclusively for the Only Watch 2019 auction, is truly one-of-a-kind. Its golden opaline and ebony-black dials are marked with "The Only One," underscoring its unique status. Powered by the Caliber 300 GS AL 36-750 QIS FUS IRM, this manually wound mechanical marvel includes a second time zone, day/night indicator, and a full calendar display, making it a true collector’s piece.
Reference Number : Ref. 6300A-010
Movement : Caliber 300 GS AL 36-750 QIS FUS IRM
Year : 2019
Auction Date : 11/09/2019
Auction House : Christie's
Price : 31 Million USD
2. Rolex Paul Newman Daytona ref. 6239 - 17.7 Million USD
Rolex Paul Newman Daytona Ref. 6239, a watch that fetched an astonishing $17.7 million at auction, making it one of the most iconic and valuable watches in history. This watch is not just a timepiece; it's a symbol of timeless elegance and design.
The Paul Newman Daytona Ref. 6239 gained fame after being worn by the legendary actor and racing enthusiast Paul Newman, forever linking it to his name and legacy. With its distinctive "Paul Newman" dial, featuring bold contrasting colors and unique square markers, this watch has become a coveted piece for collectors and enthusiasts alike.
Inside its stainless steel case beats a precise chronograph movement, a marvel of mechanical engineering that reflects the watch's dedication to perfection. The Rolex Paul Newman Daytona is more than just a watch; it's a piece of history, embodying the spirit of ambition and the pursuit of excellence..
Reference Number : Ref. 6239
Year : 1968
Auction Date : 10/26/2017
Auction House : Phillips
Price : 17.7 Million USD
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3. Philippe Dufour Grande Sonnerie Wristwatch No. 1 - 5.21 Million USD
The Philippe Dufour Grande Sonnerie Wristwatch No. 1 is a true masterpiece, blending artistry and craftsmanship in a way that few timepieces can match. Recently sold for $5.21 million, this watch is not just a purchase—it's a celebration of fine watchmaking and the incredible skill of Philippe Dufour himself.
Crafted with precision and care, this watch features an 18K yellow gold case that shines with elegance and luxury. Every detail reflects the dedication of its maker, with the watch’s intricate manual, in-house caliber being a standout feature. With 35 jewels meticulously placed within, the movement of this watch is a tribute to the highest level of watchmaking artistry.
Designed to be more than just a timekeeper, this watch also offers a perfect fit with its supple leather bracelet and 41mm case diameter. The 18K yellow gold pin buckle adds the finishing touch, ensuring the watch not only looks beautiful but also feels comfortable and secure on the wrist. The Philippe Dufour Grande Sonnerie Wristwatch No. 1 is a piece of art that captures the essence of luxury and craftsmanship, earning its place in the highest echelons of horological history.
Year : 1992
Auction Date : 11/05/2021
Auction House : Phillips
Price : 5.21 Million USD
4. Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept “Black Panther” Flying Tourbillon - 5.20 Million USD
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept "Black Panther" Flying Tourbillon made waves at a recent auction, fetching an impressive $5.2 million. This unique timepiece is a perfect blend of advanced technology and expert craftsmanship, offering a watch experience that goes beyond the ordinary.
Crafted from lightweight titanium, the case of this watch is both durable and stylish. With a water resistance of up to 50 meters, it’s built to withstand various conditions. The 42mm size provides a strong presence on the wrist without being overpowering.
The dial is the true standout, featuring a hand-painted white gold depiction of the Black Panther in incredible three-dimensional detail. The artistry involved captures the panther's power and grace, while the purple inner bezel adds a royal touch. The white gold Royal Oak hands, complete with a luminescent coating, ensure the time is always easy to read, no matter the lighting.
This watch comes with a purple rubber strap that complements the titanium AP folding clasp, creating a comfortable and secure fit. For added versatility, an extra black rubber strap is included, allowing you to switch up the look as desired. The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Concept "Black Panther" Flying Tourbillon is more than just a watch—it's a bold statement of style and craftsmanship.
Reference Number : Ref. 26620IO
Movement : CALIBRE 2965
Year : 2021
Auction Date : 04/10/2021
Auction House : Audemars Piguet
Price : 5.20 Million USD
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5. F. P. Journe x Francis Ford Coppola FFC Blue - 4.93 Million USD
The F.P. Journe FFC Blue "Francis Ford Coppola" timepiece is a remarkable tribute to the legendary filmmaker, blending the worlds of cinema and horology into a stunning masterpiece. Crafted by the esteemed watchmaker François-Paul Journe, this watch is a perfect blend of high-level craftsmanship and artistic design, embodying the spirit of Coppola's iconic contributions to film.
Housed within its beautifully crafted case is a mechanical movement that showcases F.P. Journe's dedication to precision and excellence. Every detail, from the intricately assembled components to the flawless finish, reflects the brand's commitment to creating watches that are not only accurate but also works of art.
The FFC Blue "Francis Ford Coppola" goes beyond just telling time; it serves as a wearable piece of art that echoes the creativity and passion found in Coppola's cinematic works. This watch is a powerful reminder of how storytelling and time intertwine, creating narratives that resonate across generations.
Movement : Cal. 1300
Year : 2021
Auction Date : 11/06/2021
Auction House : Christie's
Price : 4.93 Million USD
6. Breguet & Fils, Paris No. 2667 - 4.68 Million USD
The Breguet & Fils Paris No. 2667 Precision 4 pocket watch is a stunning example of the craftsmanship and artistry that defined its era. This extraordinary timepiece, crafted from 18k yellow gold, captures the elegance and precision that Breguet is renowned for, making it a prized piece among collectors and watch enthusiasts.
The circular four-body case, engraved with intricate details and numbering by Jean Louis-Joly, reflects Breguet's dedication to creating unique and distinguished timepieces. The light silver dial, adorned with delicate machine-turned patterns, features a striking combination of English and Arabic numerals on its two sub-dials, further enhanced by the contrast of yellow gold Breguet hands and blued steel hands.
What truly sets the Breguet No. 2667 apart is its remarkable movement. Housed within the 26" gilded brass manufacture are two complete mechanisms on a single plate, a groundbreaking design for its time. The movement's fully jeweled components, straight line calibrated lever escapements, and bimetallic compensation balances of steel and platinum showcase the innovative spirit of Breguet.
This timepiece’s rich history adds to its allure. Originally sold in 1814 to Mr. Garcias of London for 5,000 Francs, the Breguet & Fils No. 2667 has journeyed through time as a symbol of rarity and prestige. Its legacy was further cemented when it fetched an impressive $4.68 million at a Christie's auction in 2012, making it a coveted piece in the world of horology.
Year : 1814
Auction Date : 05/14/2012
Auction House : Christie's
Price : 4.68 Million USD
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7. George Daniels Yellow Gold Space Traveller's I - 4.56 Million USD
The George Daniels Yellow Gold Space Traveller's I, crafted by the legendary English watchmaker, achieved an extraordinary milestone by selling for a record-breaking $4.56 million at auction. This exceptional timepiece, known for its intricate design and innovative features, stands as a true testament to George Daniels' genius and the pinnacle of English watchmaking.
The Space Traveller's I, inspired by the historic 1969 moon landing, captures the essence of exploration and innovation. Handcrafted with the utmost precision, this yellow-gold watch features a double-link chain and a gold and blued-steel double-ended key, exuding a timeless elegance. What makes this timepiece truly remarkable is its ability to display both solar and sidereal time, bridging the gap between our world and the celestial movements of the stars.
Completed in 1982, the Space Traveller's I is one of only 23 pocket watches created by Daniels, each a masterpiece of horological craftsmanship. From the delicate case to the intricate dial and movement, every detail reflects Daniels' exceptional skill and artistry. The passage of time has only increased the value and desirability of this watch, as evidenced by its record-setting price at auction, making it a coveted treasure among collectors and enthusiasts.
Year : 1982
Auction Date : 07/02/2019
Auction House : Sotheby's
Price : 4.56 Million USD
8. Omega Speedmaster "Broad Arrow" Ref. 2915-1 - 3.41 Million USD
This horological masterpiece, created by Omega in 1957, is more than just a watch—it's a symbol of precision and durability that has captivated collectors worldwide. Recently, the Omega Speedmaster "Broad Arrow" achieved a remarkable price of CHF 3,115,500 at auction, solidifying its place as one of the most sought-after vintage watches.
Crafted from stainless steel, the Speedmaster "Broad Arrow" showcases Omega's dedication to quality and longevity. With its 38mm diameter, this watch strikes the perfect balance between presence and elegance, making it a timeless addition to any collection. Powered by the manual-winding calibre 321, the watch's movement is a marvel of mechanical engineering, featuring 17 jewels that ensure smooth and precise timekeeping.
The leather strap, paired with a stainless steel Omega pin buckle, offers both comfort and security, creating a seamless connection between the watch and its wearer. One of the standout features of this timepiece is its tropical dial, a unique transformation that occurs over time, giving the dial a warm, sun-kissed hue. This natural aging process adds character and history to the watch, making each piece truly one-of-a-kind and highly desirable among enthusiasts.
Reference Number : Ref. 2915-1
Movement : Calibre 321
Year : 1957
Auction Date : 11/05/2021
Auction House : Phillips
Price : 3.41 Million USD
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9. Vacheron Constantin King Fuad I No. 402833 - 2.77 Million USD
The Vacheron Constantin King Fuad I No. 402833 is a truly remarkable timepiece, crafted with extraordinary skill and precision in 1914. This masterpiece, made from 18K yellow gold and adorned with intricate enamel work, was presented to King Fouad I of Egypt by Swiss expatriates as a symbol of their admiration and respect. Its design and craftsmanship represent the pinnacle of watchmaking, blending elegance with advanced mechanical functions.
This watch features a grande and petite sonnerie, allowing it to chime the hours and quarters with stunning precision. The split-seconds chronograph captures fleeting moments with accuracy, while the 30-minute register and perpetual calendar keep track of time in a way that ensures the wearer is always in tune with the passage of days, months, and years.
As one of Vacheron & Constantin's most significant creations, the King Fuad I No. 402833 is more than just a watch—it's a piece of history. Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity, this timepiece carries with it the legacy of a bygone era, when craftsmanship and artistry were held in the highest regard. Each detail, from the carefully crafted case to the complex movement, tells a story of kings, kingdoms, and the timeless beauty of horology.
Reference Number : No. 402833
Year : 1929
Auction Date : 04/03/2005
Auction House : Antiquorum
Price : 2.77 Million USD
10. Jehan Cremsdorff : Gold, Enamel and Diamond-set Verge Watch - 2.73 Million USD
This remarkable timepiece, dating back to 1650, is a true testament to the art of watchmaking, with nearly 370 years of history embedded in its intricate design. Once part of a prestigious collection owned by a late German billionaire, which included legendary pieces like the George Daniels Space Traveller I, the Cremsdorff watch stands out as a rare gem in the world of horology. Its preservation over the centuries, with enamel and intricate details intact, adds to its mystique and allure.
Year : 1650
Auction Date : 07/03/2019
Auction House : Sotheby's
Price : 2.73 Million USD
Conclusion
As we wrap up our journey through the 10 most expensive watches ever sold at auction, it’s clear just how much these incredible timepieces mean to the world of luxury and craftsmanship. Beyond their high price tags, these watches showcase the very best of human creativity and skill in watchmaking.
These watches are more than just fancy accessories—they are treasured pieces of history and innovation. As we look back on these amazing watches, it’s clear that their legacy will keep inspiring watch lovers and collectors for years to come. These extraordinary timepieces will always stand as the ultimate expression of luxury, precision, and timeless appeal.
