An exceptionally rare collection of Patek Philippe pocket watches is set to go under the hammer in early December, drawing global attention for its remarkable craftsmanship and soaring value estimates.
The ensemble, known as the Star Caliber 2000, comprises four pocket watches crafted in yellow gold, white gold, rose gold and platinum. Created to welcome the new millennium, each double-sided timepiece houses an impressive 21 complications, showcasing the height of horological mastery.
Only five complete sets of these four watches were ever produced, making this release particularly significant. This set is projected to achieve between USD 10 million and USD 20 million at auction.
The cases were meticulously made in a half-hunter bassine style, designed to allow the chime to resonate with clarity. The front dial incorporates a time display aperture framed by engraved and enamelled Breguet numerals. The reverse reveals intricate acanthus leaf motifs and Renaissance-inspired detailing, reflecting the extraordinary level of hand engraving involved.
Just one example from the series has previously reached the auction market—a yellow gold model sold in 2012 for USD 3.3 million.
Also drawing major interest is the 31-carat Desert Rose, the world’s largest fancy vivid orangy-pink diamond, estimated at USD 7 million. The auction will form part of a high-profile collectors’ event in Dubai from 2–5 December.