Not many people know that Peter A. Ineichen, founder of the eponymous auction house, was a keen watch collector. But when he launched his company, in Zurich, back in 1973, he hadn’t thought about specialising. Ineichen started out by selling antiques, books, rugs, manuscripts and works of art. But within five years the family firm had already built up a strong reputation, notably when an 1800 Breguet came under the hammer, the first of many watches from the venerable manufacture.
This year, the auction house is celebrating 50 years of uninterrupted activity. Among the lots up for sale on 9 December at 2 pm, in an exclusively online auction, there are some that stand out. Given that the price range goes from around CHF 5,000 up to CHF 200,000, we will split them into segments for easier digestion.
Under CHF 10,000: Interesting opportunities
Rolex is unusual in that it has a presence in every price range. The GMT-II, known as the Pepsi because of its red and blue bezel, is a dependable choice and a good investment. Bidding on Lot 16 starts at CHF 6,000 – definitely one to watch.
Parmigiani Fleurier is another watchmaker worth keeping an eye on. Since Guido Terrini took the reins the brand’s profile has soared. The Tonda is the brand’s flagship timepiece, but historical models are starting to be traded more actively. The bidding for Lot 41 opens at CHF 7,500 for an exquisite 40 mm Toric Chronograph in gold, equipped with the iconic El Primero movement. This timeless, perfectly proportioned chronograph with its exceptional mechanics and riveting story presents an irresistible opportunity.
CHF 10,000 to CHF 30,000: The thrill of the chase
Kicking off this category is an impeccable Omega Speedmaster Snoopy with a starting price of CHF 11,000 CHF – although it will not stay that low, and Ineichen thinks it could go for three times that. The watch is exactly 20 years old (2023) and anything featuring Snoopy remains highly collectible.
Starting at CHF 14,000 is a Breguet Type XX. The manufacture has recently relaunched the entire collection with in-house movements, but this piece, with a diameter of 38 mm, is 100% authentic and comes with a lovely Valjoux movement. It’s a piece of history, a tribute to the pioneers of aviation, which is back in the spotlight this year.
CHF 30,000 to CHF 60,000: Investment-grade selections
According to most experts A. Lange & Söhne is the most criminally undervalued watchmaker, given the excellence of its timepieces, complications and finishes. The starting bid for the immaculately proportioned 39 mm Datograph Flyback in gold is set at CHF 30,000. Although it might benefit from a polish, this remains a timeless classic.
Bidding for the Vacheron Constantin 222 will begin at CHF 50,000 and is anticipated to escalate swiftly. Reissued in gold two years ago, this 37 mm version is more understated and astonishingly precise. The iconic 1977 case design paired with an integrated bracelet continues to set the standard.
Above CHF 60,000: The crème de la crème
In the highest price segment, as well as some Royal Oaks, Jaeger-LeCoultre’s Reversos merit closer inspection. It is incredibly rare to find two Gyrotourbillons in the same sale, particularly when one of them is a one-of-a-kind piece in platinum. Although tourbillons have appeared to fall out of favour at recent sales, the Gyrotourbillon from Le Sentier is in a class of its own. Lot Number 46, duly engraved with the words “Pièce Unique” and with a discreet emerald-set crown, commands respect. Its sister, a Hybris Mechanica featuring the same Gyrotourbillon, bearing the legend “Proto 0”, is a collector’s dream.
Finally, with a starting price of CHF 100,000, we have the obligatory Patek Philippe complication watch. Lot 35 is a rare manufacture chronograph, the Split Seconds 5370P with a platinum case and a blue grand feu enamel dial. Seasoned collectors are expected to push the price up to double the starting bid. And once you’ve seen the movement through the sapphire exhibition back, that doesn’t seem unreasonable.
Breaking news: Independents under the hammer
After the 50th anniversary auction, from 9 to 22 December, Ineichen is opening a second online event devoted exclusively to independent watchmakers. Not all the lots have been announced, but we already know of three exceptional pieces: F. P. Journe Calendrier Black Label, a rare skeleton perpetual calendar by Gérald Genta and an opulent Voutilainen three-hander with a guilloché dial. We also expect to see an MB&F Black Badger Edition with serial number 01/18, as well as an incredibly unusual H. Moser & Cie with a gold and enamel officer’s case.
The lots can be viewed here: https://ineichen.com/auctions/special-12/
