Ascent Sotheby's International Realty_Vail Valley Luxury Rentals MILESTONES MAGAZINE_Summer/Fall 2015 | Page 17

SOTHEBY’S GENEVA
11 November 2014
Important Watches
The Henry Graves
Supercomplication
Patek Philippe, 1933
Patek Philippe & Co., Geneva
No. 198385
Started in 1928, completed in 1932
and delivered on January 19, 1933
Estimate in excess of CHF 15 million
Below:
Henry Graves, Jr. (1868-1953)
Images © Sotheby’s.

Weighing 1 lb and 3 ounces, the gold openface
minute repeating chronograph clockwatch
contains 900 individual parts, 430 screws, 110
wheels, 120 removable parts and 70 jewels.
the night sky above Graves’ residence in New York City. As

by the timing of this auction. Patek Philippe traditionally

Alan Banbery, former director of the Patek Philippe mu-

commemorates anniversaries with exceptional timepiec-

seum in Geneva, stated “…exhaustive studies in the realms

es. The 150 th anniversary saw the announcement of the

of astronomy, mathematics and precision mechanisms

celebrated Calibre 89 and perhaps the significance of 2014

were necessary to achieve what then became the world’s

will prompt Patek to once again offer a virtuoso example

most complicated timepiece made completely by

of the watchmaker’s art. Whatever happens, the focus on

human hand, incorporating 24 horological complications.

Patek Philippe in this anniversary year will be intense—and

The ‘Graves’ watch retained that title for an impressively

particularly when Graves’ watch is offered for sale. It will

long time: 56 years in all.”

actually be an iconic moment.

If the appeal of Patek Philippe in general and of this
watch particularly were not enough, the allure is enhanced

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Timed to Perfection