Rare Patek Philippe Leads Multi-Million-Dollar Watch Auction

FutureGrail is bringing rare and collectible timepieces to Hong Kong, Dubai, Geneva and Singapore ahead of its November auction, with a previously unauctioned 1954 platinum Patek Philippe expected to fetch up to US$2 million.

FutureGrail will stage its first in-person live auction in Singapore on 14 November, marking a new phase for the auction house as it seeks to connect collectors across Asia, Europe and the Middle East.

The November sale will feature an exceptional collection of watches, led by a 1954 Patek Philippe Reference 2526P ‘Serpico y Laino’, a platinum-cased timepiece with an enamel dial that is believed to be a unique example. The watch has never previously appeared at auction and carries an estimate of US$1 million to US$2 million.

The catalogue includes several other highly sought-after watches, reflecting the market for rare references, limited editions and historically significant pieces. A 2004 F.P. Journe Octa Calendrier in platinum, featuring a brass movement and gold dial, is estimated at US$400,000 to US$600,000.

Other highlights include a 1950 Patek Philippe Reference 1463R chronograph in rose gold, estimated at US$300,000 to US$600,000, and a 2012 Cartier tourbillon perpetual calendar chronograph set with baguette-cut diamonds. One of only five examples made, it carries the same estimate.

The auction will also feature a 1941 Patek Philippe Reference 1502J, one of only two known examples, valued at US$150,000 to US$300,000, alongside rare watches from Daniel Roth and Urban Jürgensen.

FutureGrail chief executive Ali Nael said the company was seeing growing interest in rare watches across the Americas, Europe, the Middle East and Asia, with the auction intended to bring these collector communities closer together.

The company, which has conducted online auctions since 2023, will hold preview exhibitions in four international centres before the sale.

The Hong Kong preview will take place on 21 and 22 October at Delugs Maison in The Landmark, followed by Dubai on 28 and 29 October at ICD Brookfield in the Dubai International Financial Centre.

Collectors in Geneva can view the watches from 5 to 8 November at Beau-Rivage Genève, while the Singapore preview will run from 12 to 14 November at Artyzen Hotel.

The live auction is scheduled for 5.30pm Singapore time on 14 November. Bidders will also be able to participate remotely or place bids through FutureGrail's website.

The event puts Singapore in focus as a venue for high-value watch collecting, with the city's role as a regional luxury and financial hub offering access to buyers from across Southeast Asia and beyond.