Ever wondered how much the rich and wealthy pay for rare watches?
If so, we have brought our watch and luxury goods expert friends from BOWTIEDLIFE.com here to tell you about some of the most expensive watches ever sold.
The watches featured here today are known to have the absolute best quality, design and movements ever put in watches.
These timepieces are also extra expensive due to very high demand and no supply.
So, keep reading along as we will cover Rolex, Patek Philippe and other watches that have broken into the elite tier of timepieces!
The Most Expensive Watches Sold In An Auction
#1. Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime Ref. 6300A-010 (2019, Christie’s) – $31,190,000
Coming in first is the Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime Ref. 6300A-010, the most expensive watch ever sold at auction! This exquisite timepiece is a true marvel of craftsmanship and luxury.
The Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime Ref. 6300A-010 watch was sold at a high-profile auction on November 9, 2019. The event took place in Geneva, Switzerland, and it made headlines around the world due to its record-breaking price.
The winning bidder secured this horological masterpiece for a staggering sum of $31.19 million, making it the most expensive watch ever sold at auction at that time.
This remarkable timepiece boasts a wealth of features, including an intricate double-faced design, a striking 18-karat white gold case, and an array of complications, including a perpetual calendar, moon phase display, and minute repeater.
The Grandmaster Chime is truly a collector’s dream, showcasing both technical brilliance and timeless elegance.
Owning the Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime Ref. 6300A-010 is a testament to one’s appreciation for unparalleled watchmaking artistry and a symbol of status and exclusivity in the world of horology.
It’s no wonder that this extraordinary watch garnered such immense interest and commanded a price befitting its rarity and allure.
#2. Patek Philippe Henry Graves Supercomplication Ref. 198.385 (2014, Sotheby’s) – $24,000,000
Let’s talk about one of the most impressive timepieces in the world: the Patek Philippe Henry Graves Supercomplication Ref. 198.385 watch.
This magnificent watch is renowned for its complexity and exquisite craftsmanship, making it a true masterpiece in the horological world.
Originally commissioned by the prominent banker Henry Graves Jr. in the early 20th century, this watch was a true labor of love, taking several years to complete.
The Patek Philippe Supercomplication boasts an awe-inspiring 24 complications, including a perpetual calendar, moon phase display, and a celestial chart based on the night sky over Graves’ residence in New York City.
In terms of its price tag, this extraordinary timepiece reached unprecedented heights at an auction.
On November 11, 2014, the Patek Philippe Henry Graves Supercomplication Ref. 198.385 was sold for a staggering $24 million USD, making it the most expensive watch ever sold at that time.
This iconic watch is not just a symbol of impeccable craftsmanship but also carries a rich history, making it an alluring treasure for collectors and watch enthusiasts alike.
Its sale at the auction garnered significant attention, solidifying its status as one of the most valuable and coveted watches in the world.
#3. Rolex “Paul Newman” Daytona Ref. 6239 (2017, Phillips) – $17,750,000
Nex up is the legendary Rolex “Paul Newman” Daytona Ref. 6239 watch!
The Rolex “Paul Newman” Daytona Ref. 6239 is one of the most sought-after and expensive watches in the world.
This iconic timepiece gained its nickname from the famous actor and racecar driver, Paul Newman, who was often seen wearing it.
The watch features a unique dial design with art deco-style numerals and distinct subdials.
Now, the highlight moment: at a prestigious Phillips auction, this horological masterpiece fetched a jaw-dropping price of $17.75 million! It was sold in 2017 to an enthusiastic collector who didn’t hesitate to pay a whopping sum for this horological treasure.
This particular Rolex watch continues to capture the hearts of watch enthusiasts and remains a symbol of timeless elegance and luxury.
It’s no wonder that its auction sale made headlines in the world of horology and beyond!
#4. Patek Philippe Stainless Steel Ref. 1518 (2016, Phillips) – $11,137,000
Patek Philippe Stainless Steel Ref. 1518 is one of the most coveted and expensive watches in the world. This remarkable timepiece holds historical significance as it was the first serially produced perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch ever made.
Its rarity lies in its stainless steel construction, a rarity for Patek Philippe watches known for their precious metals.
The Patek Philippe Stainless Steel Ref. 1518 was sold at a prestigious auction held by Phillips in Geneva, which took place in November 2016.
During this historic event, the watch fetched a staggering price of $11,136,642, making it the most expensive wristwatch ever sold at that time.
The extraordinary value of this timepiece can be attributed to its scarcity, exceptional craftsmanship, and the esteemed legacy of the Patek Philippe brand.
This auction result garnered significant attention from collectors, investors, and watch enthusiasts worldwide, solidifying the Patek Philippe Stainless Steel Ref. 1518’s position as a horological masterpiece and a true symbol of luxury and sophistication.
Its timeless design and unparalleled mechanics continue to captivate watch enthusiasts, making it a timeless icon in the realm of haute horology.
#5. Patek Philippe “Prince Mohammed Tewlik A. Toussou” Ref. 1518 (2021, Sotheby’s) – $9,570,000
The Patek Philippe “Prince Mohammed Tewlik A. Toussou” Ref. 1518 is an exceptionally rare and valuable timepiece that has captivated the attention of watch enthusiasts worldwide.
This exquisite watch is part of the esteemed Ref. 1518 series, renowned for being the world’s first perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch produced in a limited quantity from the 1940s.
The unique appeal of the “Prince Mohammed Tewlik A. Toussou” Ref. 1518 lies in its historical significance and provenance.
It is believed to have once belonged to Prince Mohammed Tewlik A. Toussou, adding an element of royalty to an already extraordinary piece.
The watch showcases a harmonious blend of timeless elegance and intricate craftsmanship, embodying the pinnacle of watchmaking artistry.
During a momentous auction held in 2021, this exclusive timepiece found a new home at an astounding price of $9.57 million, solidifying its status as one of the most expensive watches ever sold.
Collectors and connoisseurs alike eagerly anticipated this auction, recognizing the unparalleled value of the “Prince Mohammed Tewlik A. Toussou” Ref. 1518 and the opportunity to own a piece of horological history.
The sale of this legendary watch sets a new benchmark in the world of luxury timepieces, underlining the enduring appeal and investment potential of exceptional vintage Patek Philippe watches.
Its acquisition stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Patek Philippe and the allure of owning a timepiece that has graced the wrists of historical figures.
#6. Patek Philippe Gobbi Milan “Heures Universelles” Ref. 2523 (2019, Christie’s) – $8,967,000
The Patek Philippe Gobbi Milan “Heures Universelles” Ref. 2523 watch is an extraordinary timepiece that commands a staggering price in the world of luxury watches. Known for its exceptional craftsmanship and unique design, this horological masterpiece is highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs alike.
The Ref. 2523 model is renowned for its “Heures Universelles” feature, which displays multiple time zones, making it a practical and sophisticated companion for globetrotters.
At a prestigious auction held in 2019, this exceptional timepiece made history by fetching an astounding $8.97 million price tag.
This remarkable sale not only underscores the desirability of Patek Philippe watches but also solidifies the brand’s status as a leader in the luxury watch industry.
The Patek Philippe Gobbi Milan “Heures Universelles” Ref. 2523 continues to be a symbol of elegance and opulence, representing the pinnacle of Swiss watchmaking expertise.
As one of the most expensive watches ever sold, it remains an iconic and coveted item among watch enthusiasts, cementing its place in the annals of horological legend.
#7. Patek Philippe Stainless Steel Ref. 5016A-010 (2015, Phillips) – $7,259,000
The Patek Philippe Stainless Steel Ref. 5016A-010 is one of the most exclusive and expensive watches ever produced by the renowned Swiss watchmaker.
This exceptional timepiece was offered in a rare stainless steel case, making it even more unique among luxury watches that typically feature precious metals.
The Ref. 5016A-010 is known for its intricate design, showcasing a perpetual calendar, moon phase indicator, tourbillon, and minute repeater complication – a combination of features that exemplify the pinnacle of haute horology.
This extraordinary timepiece garnered significant attention from collectors and enthusiasts worldwide when it was put up for auction.
In 2015, this exceptional Patek Philippe watch was sold at an auction for a staggering $7.26 million by Phillips.
The astonishing price tag it commanded is a testament to the exceptional craftsmanship, rarity, and desirability of this particular model, cementing its status as one of the most sought-after and valuable watches in the horological world.
As a result, the Patek Philippe Stainless Steel Ref. 5016A-010 has solidified its place as a horological legend and continues to be a symbol of timeless elegance and extraordinary engineering, appealing to those with a discerning taste for the finest and most exclusive timepieces.
#8. Patek Philippe Nautilus Ref. 5711/1A-018 “Tiffany & Co.” (2021, Phillips) – $6,500,000
The Patek Philippe Nautilus Ref. 5711/1A-018 “Tiffany & Co.” watch is one of the most coveted and expensive timepieces in the world of luxury watches.
This extraordinary watch gained immense popularity due to its unique collaboration with the renowned American jeweler, Tiffany & Co.
The timepiece boasts a stunning stainless steel case and bracelet, with a deep blue dial bearing the iconic Tiffany & Co. logo just above the 6 o’clock marker.
At a highly anticipated Phillips auction held in 2021, this exquisite Patek Philippe Nautilus “Tiffany & Co.” watch was sold for a staggering $6.5 million USD, making it one of the highest-priced watches ever auctioned.
The rarity of this particular model, coupled with its exclusive partnership with Tiffany & Co., contributed to its astronomical value among collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
The Patek Philippe Nautilus Ref. 5711/1A-018 “Tiffany & Co.” watch not only serves as a precise timekeeping instrument but also stands as a symbol of exceptional craftsmanship and luxury. Owning this timepiece is a true testament to one’s appreciation for horological artistry and an esteemed addition to any watch connoisseur’s collection.
#9. Patek Philippe Titanium Ref. 5208T-010 (2017, Christie’s) – $6,226,000
The Patek Philippe Titanium Ref. 5208T-010 is a horological marvel that gained significant attention for its astonishing price at auction.
Crafted by the renowned Swiss watchmaker Patek Philippe, this timepiece stands as a pinnacle of luxury and craftsmanship.
What sets it apart is its exclusive use of titanium, a material known for its exceptional strength and lightweight properties, making the watch both durable and comfortable to wear.
At the Christie’s auction, this prestigious timepiece reached a jaw-dropping selling price of $6.3 million making it one of the most expensive watches ever sold.
The 2017 auction garnered immense interest from avid watch collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
The Ref. 5208T-010 boasts an intricate combination of a minute repeater, a monopusher chronograph, and an instantaneous perpetual calendar, showcasing the pinnacle of mechanical watchmaking prowess.
As one of Patek Philippe’s limited editions, the Ref. 5208T-010 represents the epitome of horological excellence, and its presence at auction was a momentous occasion in the world of haute horlogerie, underscoring the enduring allure of exceptional timepieces.
#10. Rolex Daytona Gold “Unicorn” Ref. 6265 (2018, Phillips) – $5,937,000
The Rolex Daytona Gold “Unicorn” Ref. 6265 is a highly coveted timepiece that made headlines as one of the most expensive watches ever sold at an auction.
Renowned for its rarity and exquisite craftsmanship, this watch earned its nickname, “Unicorn,” due to its unique status in the luxury watch world.
The sale of this extraordinary timepiece took place at a prestigious Phillips auction in 2018. It fetched a staggering $5.9 million, setting a new record for the highest price ever paid for a Rolex Daytona watch at auction.
What makes the “Unicorn” Ref. 6265 so exceptional is its one-of-a-kind design, crafted entirely from 18-karat white gold, a material rarely used in Rolex watches.
Moreover, it features a mesmerizing dial with stunning black and white “panda” sub-dials, adding to its allure and exclusivity.
The watch’s allure is also attributed to its provenance, as it is said to be the only known white gold Rolex Daytona with this specific dial configuration.
This exceptional combination of rarity, elegance, and historical significance makes the Rolex Daytona Gold “Unicorn” Ref. 6265 an iconic and sought-after timepiece among watch collectors and enthusiasts worldwide.
Most Expensive Watches – Conclusion
There you have it!
These are the 10 most expensive watches sold at an auction ever!
We hope you’ve liked our article about these ultra rare timepieces.
Here’s a quick recap of the 10 most expensive watches ever sold:
- Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime Ref. 6300A-010 (2019, Christie’s) – $31,190,000
- Patek Philippe Henry Graves Supercomplication Ref. 198.385 (2014, Sotheby’s) – $24,000,000
- Rolex “Paul Newman” Daytona Ref. 6239 (2017, Phillips) – $17,750,000
- Patek Philippe Stainless Steel Ref. 1518 (2016, Phillips) – $11,137,000
- Patek Philippe “Prince Mohammed Tewlik A. Toussou” Ref. 1518 (2021, Sotheby’s) – $9,570,000
- Patek Philippe Gobbi Milan “Heures Universelles” Ref. 2523 (2019, Christie’s) – $8,967,000
- Patek Philippe Stainless Steel Ref. 5016A-010 (2015, Phillips) – $7,259,000
- Patek Philippe Nautilus Ref. 5711/1A-018 “Tiffany & Co.” (2021, Phillips) – $6,500,000
- Patek Philippe Titanium Ref. 5208T-010 (2017, Christie’s) – $6,226,000
- Rolex Daytona Gold “Unicorn” Ref. 6265 (2018, Phillips) – $5,937,000
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