The best watch in the world? “Such revelations,” says Robin Swithinbank in our current issue, “do not exist. And thank goodness.” Individuals may have their favourites, but much like art, wine or music this is truly subjective, and therefore to determine the best in the world is a wholly impossible challenge. But this doesn’t mean the search for it is any less attractive.
“Auctions offer a perfectly legitimate route into watch ownership,” he continues, “and often throw up unusual if not rare timepieces.” Trusting his word I perused the watches at Salon QP with stalwart focus, particularly the pieces exhibited by Fellows Auctioneers, a family-run business founded in 1876 with monthly watch auctions which take place in Birmingham’s Jewellery Quarter. Robin’s observation was soon proved testament.
Going under the hammer on December 1, this rare Jaeger-LeCoultre Perpetual Calendar wristwatch is nothing short of a gem – its estimate of £15,000-£20,000 plays second fiddle to its beauty and historical importance. The movement, based on the 11U calibre used in early Reverso models, is signed Jaeger-LeCoultre and the 18ct gold case has punch marks for Edmond Jaeger, with import marks for Geneva and for London 1938.
This unique piece harks back to when the Jaeger-LeCoultre brand name was first used in 1937, having formerly been either LeCoultre or Jaeger. To mark this occasion – the official birth of Jaeger-LeCoultre – a stunning rectangular wristwatch calendar was produced. And while the relationship of this particular watch to that piece is not confirmed, it should be noted that the production of a Jaeger-LeCoultre-signed full perpetual calendar this early would have been a significant undertaking and not part of standard production.
While finding the best watch in the world is something of a unicorn hunt, come auction day the search will, for many, surely come to an abrupt standstill.
Visit www.fellows.co.uk to view the full catalogue and sign up to bid.
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