These days, luxury watches are not only about telling the time. Instead, they serve like a functional piece of jewellery that does more than only look pretty. They aid individuals to manifest their success, achievement or unique personality. Perhaps the fascinating thing you can see today is a mechanical watch; its craftsmanship, complex engineering fit inside tiny cases.
These timepieces constitute some of the man’s biggest achievements in a small device to fit on the wrist. It’s not surprising that the best iterations are exceedingly sought-after among collectors. Well, luxury watches are synonymous with expensive. The most exclusive and extravagant timepieces in the world are multi-million-pound creations.
In fact, while the watch market is booming right now, the rarest iterations are breaking world records at auctions. However, the most expensive watches have a class of their own. They possess unique aesthetics to capture the eyes of avid collectors, billionaires and millionaires, Hollywood A-listers and more. Now:
When talking about the most expensive watches in the world, the names that strike to mind first include Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Cartier & more. The watches made by the leading watch brands appeal to anyone with their superb styling, classic engineering and exclusivity. Moreover, many of these timepieces are limited editions or one-offs.
So are you wondering what the world’s most expensive watches are? Do you know which the most expensive Rolex watch is?
Keep reading to look at the top most expensive watches ever produced and know why they command astronomical prices.
The Paul New Newman Rolex Daytona made a record-breaking sale in 2017, fetching about £13.01 million. This is the most expensive Rolex watch ever sold and the costliest timepiece ever sold globally.
So what’s so special about Paul Newman’s Rolex? How did it become the most expensive watch of all time?
The Paul Newman’s Rolex Daytona is not specifically a rare model nor embellished with very precious gems. However, it’s the unique story and association that appealed to collectors.
The story dates back to 1968 when Newman’s wife Joanne Woodward gifted a Rolex Daytona to him. While Newman began racing cars recently, her wife engraved the words’ Drive Carefully Me’ on the watch’s back. Later, this Daytona became Paul Newman’s favourite timepiece, wearing it during photo shoots, outdoors and many other places.
A gold case and a black dial – this was the rarest configuration available in the Rolex’s catalogue at the time. Thus, the Rolex Bao Dai is among the unique and most instantly recognisable watches among watch enthusiasts.
Rolex initially sold this timepiece to the Nguyen dynasty’s last emperor in 1954 in Vietnam. And it was the costliest watch available in the brand’s catalogue at that time. What makes this Rolex so unique & collectable?
However, the watch was at auction already before. The Nguyen family sold it first in 2002 for about £171,880. Interestingly, it was the highest price paid ever for a Rolex watch at that time.
Rolex produced the Daytona Unicorn Reference 6265 between 1970 and 1988. The watch sports a 37mm steel Oyster case and the manual winding Calibre 727 movement. Interestingly, collectors had no severe interest in this watch. However, Reference 6265 was not any ordinary Rolex.
So, why Rolex 6265 is unique? The watch is crafted of white gold, hence, the nickname ‘Unicorn’. The white gold case frames a black sigma dial. Rolex delivered this watch to a German retailer in 1971. However, it is believed to be the only version of Reference 6265 crafted of white gold. Thus, the watch is genuinely unique and highly coveted.
Related: 8 Vintage Rolex Models that Can Fetch a Premium in Pre-owned Market
Patek Philippe Reference 1518 debuted in 1941 as the first perpetual calendar moon-phase chronograph watch. This in itself made the watch a highly coveted collector’s piece. But the timepiece did not have substantial collectors as Patek Philippe introduced the model at the peak of WWII.
The watchmaker introduced the Reference 1518 in stainless steel, yellow gold and Rose gold cases. Although all three watches are coveted, the steel edition is more desirable among collectors. Phillips Bacs & Russo sold the watch in Geneva, where the bidding started at about £2.20 million. However, the final price settled at £7.10 million, making a record for a wristwatch at that time.
This Patek Philippe Reference 5016A-010 ranks among the list of the most complicated watches ever made. The watch packs the Calibre RT 027 PSQR hand-wound movement featuring a one-minute tourbillon, perpetual calendar and minute repeater. Moreover, it is made of 506 hand-finished parts.
Interestingly, the Phillips Auction house billed the timepiece as one of the greatest classics of the Patek Philippe Grand Complications. The estimated price was CHF 700,000 – 900,000. However, the watch finally hammered at a staggering £5.42 million.
At the bi-annual Only Watch charity auction, the limelight was on the host of Patek Philippe watches. Following the record-breaking sale of Reference 5016A-010, the watchmaker again came up with another one-of-its-kind model.
The fact is that Patek Philippe used titanium very rare. And Reference 5208 is the only titanium edition ever produced. It sold for an astronomical price of £4.61 million – the second-highest sum that bi-annual event ever achieved. However, the auctioned price went to Monaco Association that works for the degenerative muscular disorder, Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy.
Christie’s auction house billed this 18ct Gold Chronograph from Patek Philippe as a historically significant wristwatch. Patek Philippe introduced Reference 1527 in 1943, packing the Calibre 13 into it. And the movement controlled the date, moon phase and perpetual calendar functionality of the timepiece.
Why is this Patek Philippe Chronograph watch special? This is because the watch is the archetype of some of the most iconic watches within Patek’s catalogue. Take, for example the Reference 5270.
However, like most timepieces debuted during WWII, Patek Philippe produced Reference 1527 in low numbers. The watchmaker supposedly made only two of the Reference 1527, and this specific version is considered one of the two models. Another one is a non-chronograph watch.
Thus, when it went to auction in 2010 at Christie’s, the competition was furious. The auctioneers estimated the watch to fetch within £1.15 – £1.93 million. However, the timepiece finally sold for about £4.67 million, becoming the most expensive watch sold at auction at that time.
The Patek Philippe Calibre 89 enjoyed the recognition of the world’s most complicated watch for over a quarter of a century. However, it lost this tag in 2015 after the release of Vacheron Constantin 57260. But the Calibre 89 is yet the most complicated timepiece in Patek Philippe’s catalogue. And thus, the watch is indeed unique.
Well, Patek Philippe released the Calibre 89 watch to commemorate the brand’s 150th anniversary. They produced only four of these models in platinum, white gold, yellow gold and pink gold, respectively. However, the model that went up for auction in 2009 is the yellow-gold edition.
A famous Japanese Ferrari and Patek Philippe collector named Yoshiho Matsuda bought the timepiece for nearly £3,739,172. He has this exclusive timepiece in his collection to date. The watch came up for auction several times, but it did not reach the price set at about £8.16 million.
Related: 5 Factors that Make Patek Philippe Watches So Expensive
This Royal Oak Offshore Grande Complication is the descendant of the ever-first sports watches, the iconic Royal Oak. It is among the most expensive watches within AP’s catalogue and also in the world. However, the Audemars Piguet Offshore Grande Complication is a waterproof masterpiece with exclusive features. It includes –
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Grande Complication features a 44mm titanium case and a ceramic bezel. However, its skeleton display allows you to see the elegant and detailed finishing that took 860 hours to complete.
Many watch collectors and fans have fallen in love with this iconic, luxurious timepiece that contributes significantly to the brand’s ultra-desirability. However, AP produced only three examples of this timepiece worldwide, making it a rare piece to collect.
Audemars Piguet named this watch collection after one of the company’s founders. The Jules Audemars Grande Complication is available in different metals like pink gold and titanium. However, the watch measures 42mm in diameter and features a transparent case back to give you a glimpse of the mesmerising movement.
Moreover, a hand-stitched alligator leather strap boosts the elegance of this self-winding timepiece. The strap is further fitted with titanium or 950platinum or 18ct gold folding clasp. The watches of this collection cost nearly between £471,655 and £571,764.
The third model in the list of the most expensive Audemars Piguet watches is the Millenary CarbonTourbillon Chronograph. What contributes to the astronomical price tag of the watch are the materials. The list includes blackened steel and aluminium for the bridges, forged carbon for the watch case. Moreover, AP used black ceramic for the crown, chronograph push-pieces and the bezel.
The brand’s expert craftsmen made the case by processing and moulding separate carbon wire pieces. The result is unique texture and ultra-lightweight. Moreover, the watch features a column-wheel mechanism, tourbillon and twin barrels. AP completed the model’s elegant look with a hand-stitched alligator leather strap.
It takes over two weeks to assemble the watch and is also waterproof. Pairing expert craftsmanship with cutting-edge materials, the Millenary CarbonTourbillon Chronograph cost nearly £301,712.
Also Read: 5 of the Best Audemars Piguet Watches for Avid Watch Collectors
The Cartier Ballon Blue Tourbillon Diamond watch sports a 46mm case size with 13mm thickness and an upgraded movement mechanism. However, what boosts the watch’s glamour is the Baguette diamond-set bracelet. The slate grey dial with sun satin-finished grid and transparent case back adds to the beauty of the watch.
Moreover, the Roman numeral hour markers and sword-shaped hands on the dial ensure increased legibility and beauty. You can see the tourbillon at the 6 o’clock side. The manual wound movement gives 50 hours of power reserve. How much does it cost? It is about £0.79 million.
Cartier introduced the Rotonde Tourbillon Chronograph as a limited edition timepiece. It comes with a 45mm case diameter with a thickness of 15.7mm. Other exclusive features of this limited edition piece include a black alligator strap and a transparent case.
However, the strap builds up to a double adjustable deployant buckle that allows comfortable wearing. The signature Roman numeral markers and blue-coloured sword hands elevate the readability of the elegant grey dial. How much is the watch worth? It is about £176,749.
Cartier produced the Extra Large Tortue High Complication platinum watch only in 15 pieces, making it a rare model to come across. The watch features a platinum case of 10.7mm thickness and a transparent case back. However, what further magnifies the beauty and elegance of the watch is the high-quality black alligator strap.
This Cartier Tortue High Complication Extra Large watch flaunts a silver guilloche dial with Roman numeral markers and apple-shaped blue hands. Other features include a power reserve indicator and calendar functionality. This manual winding, water-resistant watch cost nearly £367,008.
Related: How Cartier Became A Serious Watchmaker?
The elite watchmaker Jaeger Lecoultre designed the ultra-luxurious Joaillerie 101 Manchette watch to gift Queen Elizabeth on her reign’s 60th year. The watch is made of white gold and flaunts a series of diamond-set links. Moreover, the exclusive profile houses a tiny movement – Calibre 101. The timepiece is worth nearly £19.07 million.
The Vacheron Constantin Reference 57260 is among the most complicated timepiece in the world. It consists of 57 different complications, 242 jewels and 2826 individual elements. Interestingly, ten of these complications were new inventions in the horological industry at their manufacturing time.
The most exceptional features of Reference 57260 include a double retrograde split-seconds chronograph, a night mode and the Judaic calendar. However, the timepiece sports a simplistic case that leaves the centre stage to the unrivalled mechanics.
Vacheron Constantin is known to take nearly eight years to design and produce this watch. So you won’t be surprised to know that the timepiece fetched about £5.87 million.
The BR-X1 Tourbillon Sapphire showcases the brand’s signature cockpit design. And it is the most expensive watch by far Bell & Ross has ever made, having a price tag of about £363,253. The timepiece features an all-sapphire case with transparent sides that clearly illustrate the mono-pusher chronograph tourbillon movement.
Bell & Ross offered this ultramodern watch, one of the oldest movement constructions in watchmaking. The columns raise the bridges slightly from the main plate. However, the plates have added cutaways that boost the view from the sides. This means you can admire all the functional components from several angles.
So these are some of the most expensive watches for men ever produced or sold at auction. Not everyone can afford them right now, but there is no harm in seeing and dreaming.
However, those who have a luxury watch and want an accurate valuation can contact our expert team today. The Luxury Hut buys all kinds of luxury timepieces from leading watch brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Cartier and more, vintage or modern, for competitive prices. Part-exchange against watches is also available. Fill in our online form or call on 0207 242 9160 for an instant price quote.
Audemars Piguet, a leading Swiss watchmaker, has been revolutionising and upgrading its iconic collections with unique designs since its establishment in 1875. The design of their watches features a mix of modern aesthetic and conventional craftsmanship. The brand has nearly eight collections, including the most popular and iconic Royal Oak.
Well, let’s take a look at five of the best Audemars Piguet watches, recognised for their unbeaten aesthetic attributes.
Adding an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Rose Gold model to a collection is like securing the grail of all grails. The Royal Oak Extra-Thin Ref. 152020R comes with a 39mm case, a blue petite tapisserie dial, and a display case back. However, the dial flaunts a matching deep blue calendar wheel, luminous applied baton hour markers and iconic double baton marker at 12-hour marker.
Interestingly, this Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Blue Dial watch sports an elegant bracelet construction where the parts are arranged in diminishing order. AP graduated them into seven different sizes with alternating links and studs. Moreover, the versatile 39mm case houses the brand’s legendary Calibre 2121 movement. It offers 40 hours of power reserve and a frequency of 19,800vph.
The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph debuted first nearly 20 years ago. Today, it is available in about twelve references and comes in a bulkier 41mm case size. Nonetheless, this timepiece is yet a fan favourite. AP offers the Royal Oak Chrono in several precious metal options. However, the 18ct pink gold edition of Reference 26320OR takes things to a higher level. It sports a solid gold case and an exquisite brown alligator strap.
The watch flaunts a well-balanced, clean silver Grande Tapisserie dial. And it serves as a perfect base for the 18ct pink gold hands and matching applied baton hour markers. However, the three sub-dials flaunt flat borders and snailed centres. An alligator strap completes the sophisticated look of this Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Chronograph timepiece. Moreover, it is powered by the in-house Calibre 2385.
Want to know your pre-owned Audemars Piguet Royal Oak price? Call us on 0207 242 9160 now.
The Royal Oak Double Balance Wheel Openworked debuted in 2016, retaining the case design of the classic Royal Oak. However, this Audemars Piguet Royal Oak skeleton watch packs a new concept of movement that improves the timekeeping accuracy. The timepiece houses the Calibre 3132 movement. And its one-of-its-kind design features two balance wheels sitting parallel to one another and interconnected through a central component.
The skeleton bridges and plates display exquisite finishing with chamfered edges, dressage, mirror polish screw holes and more. Moreover, the dial is a blend of contrasting colours. For example, the bridges and hands come in pink gold; whereas, the double balance wheel is yellow gold.
This Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore is an automatic watch that AP initially designed for divers. People typically categorise the Royal Oak Offshore as fairly pricey Audemars Piguet watches. However, this particular model has outstanding features like a rotating inner diver scale bezel.
AP equipped the watch with the self-winding Calibre 3120 movement that delivers 60 hours of power reserve and six beats per second. Moreover, you can see a ‘Mega Tapisserie’ dial on this Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore coupled with luminous white gold hands, hour markers.
The watch is water-resistant to 300m, thanks to the tightly screwed stainless steel case and robust sapphire crystal.
The Royal Oak Concept GMT Flying Tourbillon is the first flying tourbillon timepiece within the brand’s catalogue that packs another movement powering the Royal Oak Concept Flying Tourbillon for ladies. The watch features the sand-blasted titanium central bridges on the dial side with gold-toned, polished facets. Interestingly, you can see the glimpse of the Calibre 2954 via the openings between the multiple indications.
However, the dial features a disc at the 3 o’clock side that indicates the second time zone. The watch also has a crown guard incorporating the pusher at the 4 o’clock side. It advances the disc of the second time zone that shows 12 hours by an hour.
So which is your favourite Audemars Piguet Royal Oak watch? Let’s know in the comments.
And if you are looking to sell an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak watch, fill in our online form or call us on 0207 242 9160 to get the best price quote instantly.
Richard Mille is today recognised as a leading trendsetter in the world of watchmaking. A Richard Mille watch exhibits the brand’s unique craftsmanship, innovation ability and idiosyncrasy. Every watch enthusiast today adores the watchmaker but cannot get hands on the brand’s timepieces quickly.
Undoubtedly, the watches are exceedingly impressive, but a Richard Mille watch price also astonishes its fans. You are most likely to have a glimpse of this brand’s timepieces on the internet and on the wrists of your wealthy friends. So let’s explore this luxury watchmaker in detail here.
The man behind this innovative watch brand is Richard Mille. So if you want to comprehend the brand, you have to know about this man.
Richard Mille started his career in horology in the 1970s at the French watch company Finhor. However, the jeweller Matra bought Finhor in 1981, and this was when Richard Mille began to shine.
He took on a managerial role in Matra’s chronometer division, controlling the entire watchmaking process. However, he left Matra after nearly a decade and joined a new watch firm Mauboussin to assist it in setting up the luxury watch market. But Richard Mille wanted to push the boundaries of watchmaking beyond anything that persisted at that time. Thus, he decided to build his own brand at the age of fifty bearing a modern approach to horology.
In 1999, he established his eponymous company, Richard Mille SA that awes us today with extravagant creations. Interestingly, Mille started his venture by partnering with Audemars Piguet, a shareholder of Richard Mille.
Richard Mille produced the watch of his dreams in 2001. It featured a tonneau case with unique torque screws and a striking six-digit price tag. Interestingly, this masterpiece placed the nestling brand at its peak, cementing its position as a leading innovator of the luxury watch industry.
Here are some of the significant factors contributing to the hefty price tags of a Richard Mille watch.
People can instantly recognise Richard Mille watches due to their distinctive design. The watches bear unapologetically unique and bold aesthetics. Moreover, all the timepieces are ergonomic and lightweight, offering sheer comfort.
One of the defining features of Richard Mille watches is the iconic tonneau-shaped case. This sandwich-style case is tough and complicated to make, which reflects the price tag. However, in the case of design, the watchmaker integrates everything in its watches to boost comfort.
All watches are hand-finished and feature functionalities that represent the highest level of technical artistry.
Richard Mille makes its watches revolutionary and futuristic using innovative hi-tech components. The brand utilises cutting-edge materials that you will not find in the watch market. Instead, you will see these materials in the aerospace industries, racing yachts and Formula 1 cars. However, these elements are both radical and highly progressive in watchmaking.
Thus, the watchmaker invests millions of Swiss Francs in researching and producing such ingenious materials to create its timepieces. They bear a super solid silhouette but offer a featherweight feel on the wrist.
Richard Mille produces its watches using a complex process, and it takes time. Nearly everything is done by hand. However, exclusivity is also a factor that plays a significant role in the scarcity of Richard Mille watches.
The watchmaker produces less than 5,000 models each year, ensuring that none of its timepieces loses the classic mystique. However, the demand surpasses the supply every year. The brand manufactures limited-edition models as well that elevate people’s cravings.
Richard Mille watches have been manifesting their uniqueness and status for more than a decade. And they have been the watches of choice of famous athletes, film stars, scholars and business people. The ergonomic design, visually appealing lines and comfort make Richard Mille watches expensive.
Here are two of the most expensive Richard Mille watches.
Thanks to the tripartite sapphire case and the brand’s rebellious ‘cabled movement’ design, the RM 56-02 Sapphire is extraordinary. The watch comes with a grade 5 titanium baseplate and anti-glare protection case on the front and back bezels. Moreover, the Richard Mille Tourbillon RM 56-02 Sapphire is water-resistant up to 30m. The timepiece retails for nearly £1.44 Million.
The Richard Mille RM 65-01 watch appeals to collectors with its pared-down purity, an exquisite case and precisely finished movement. According to some critics, the sapphire crystal on the timepiece looks like plastic, destroying the luxury essence. However, the truth is that the transparent look makes the watch extraordinary.
The answer is yes. Although it is comparatively a young watch brand, the Richard Mille watch price far surpasses other watchmakers. They retain excellent resale value. It is primarily because of the quality of the materials and technology that the watchmaker uses to produce its timepieces.
Richard Mille manufactures their unique watch materials, including carbon nonfibers, titanium, anticorodal 100, TPT carbon, aluminium-lithium, and more.
Moreover, while the brand produces each model, not more than 200 pieces, their value increases with time. For example, the Richard Mille RM 52-05 is available only in 30 pieces and its value surges by an average of 10% every year.
Over the last few years, pre-owned watch sales have skyrocketed. This is because you can get your hands on the references that have a long waitlist. However, it also includes the possibility of buying a Richard Mille replica.
And your untrained eyes might not spot the difference between an authentic Richard Mille and a fake one. So how can you tell if a Richard Mille watch is real?
Here are some valuable tips –
Keep in mind –
When it comes to luxury watch brands like Richard Mille, buying from a trusted reseller or a professional dealer will be the best way to ensure you are getting an authentic watch.
Related: The History of Rolex in the Development of Wristwatches
The partnership between Bello & Ross and Renault F1 Team, now known as Alpine F1 Team, traces back to 2016. Considering the brand’s sporty creations and its association with France, this partnership will seem like a match made in heaven.
This year, Bell & Ross introduced three limited edition watches, spanning several collections within the watchmaker’s stockpile. However, the latest edition of 2021 sports some notable differences in comparison to its earlier generations. And ideally, the most striking one is the watch’s interrelation with the new A521 single-seat cars.
Today, let’s look specifically at the new Bell & Ross BR03-94 A521 timepiece that pays tribute to the strong collaboration between the brand and the Renault F1 Team.
The Bell & Ross BR03-94 A521 comes with a 42mm case diameter and is a significant part of the legendary BR03-94 series. The watch features the signature square-shaped case and a round dial that define the collection.
However, the A521 watch differs slightly from its earlier siblings in some unique features. One difference you will find on the bezel. The timepiece comes with a bi-directional rotatable bezel absent in the prior version – BR03-94 R.S. 20).
Interestingly, the watch will remind you of the enduring partnership with some racing features.
Moreover, the BR03-94 A521 flaunts Bell & Ross’s signature Alpine Blue. The watchmaker employed this blue hue in many aspects of the timepiece, like the chronograph hands and chapter ring. The watch nods to the legacy of both brands beautifully, with the French flag engraving at the 6 o’clock side on the dial.
The new Bell & Ross BR03-94 runs on the exclusive BR-CAL. 301 movement. The watchmaker designed this movement based on the durable ETA 2894-2, offering an added chronograph module with a column-wheel mechanism. However, the BR-CAL. 301 movement provides a power reserve of 42 hours, beating at 28.800bph.
Besides the chronograph function, the watch also sports a date aperture at the 6 o’clock side on the dial. However, Bell & Ross fitted the timepiece with a solid case back.
The new Bell & Ross BR03-94 A521 Alpine F1 Edition is available in limited numbers of 500 pieces. Overall, it is a fantastic timepiece, flaunting excellent design cues and a handsome look.
Are you looking to sell your luxury watch in London? Get in touch with us today as we can buy your timepiece for the best price possible in the market. Fill in our online form and receive a free valuation instantly. Or call on 0207 242 9160 to book an appointment at our Hatton Garden office in London.
Patek Philippe has been the pioneer in the luxury watchmaking industry for nearly 200 years. This finest watchmaker combines its strict dedication to tradition, technological wonders and craftsmanship to make some of the most iconic watches. Patek Philippe knows what represents an iconic reference.
Eventually, every timepiece within Patek Philippe’s catalogue has turned to be a status symbol over the years. And they remain excellent investment pieces because of their ability to retain value and price surge in the resale market.
So let’s explore a generation of some iconic Patek Philippe models. They represent the brand’s core ethics and hold excellent resale value, making them sound investments.
Patek Philippe introduced the Nautilus collection, representing the sports watch industry. However, the first Nautilus watch that made its debut in 1976 was the Reference 3700/1. The story behind the creation of Nautilus is pretty fascinating.
The Nautilus is by far the most cherished and coveted stainless steel sports watch globally. However, the brand upgraded the Nautilus line over the years. The Nautilus is today available in white gold, yellow and also in rose gold.
Moreover, among its several popular versions, the Nautilus with chronograph functionality is more sought-after among collectors. The Nautilus offers many exclusive features that make it an actual sports timepiece.
Also Read: An Unexpected Move: Patek Philippe Nautilus Ref. 5711 Discontinued
Taking inspiration from the Nautilus, Patek Philippe launched another cornerstone collection in 1997 – the Aquanaut. However, although it appears similar to the Nautilus, the Aquanaut has a personality of its own.
The Aquanaut also sports a tropical strap that offers resistance to water, UV rays and abrasion. Furthermore, Patek equips the watch with many complications that run on a chronograph movement.
One of the unique and most elegant Patek Philippe collections is the Calatrava, celebrated for its grace and beauty. The Calatrava has been a mainstay series in the brand’s catalogue for nearly 80 years. However, the collection includes watches of varied styles like references with a small seconds sub-dial.
There are also watches with three hands. Moreover, you can also find some Calatrava references featuring date functionality.
Also Read: The Mid-size Patek Philippe Calatrava Pilot Travel Time Presents a Bright New Colourway
Another one-of-a-kind collection in the brand’s portfolio is the Golden Ellipse. Patek Philippe deviated from conventional watch shapes and offered the Golden Ellipse a circular casing. However, the Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse watches exhibit a minimalistic and sophisticated look with a well-proportionate dial.
Interestingly, the inspiration behind the creation of the Golden Ellipse was the discovery of the ancient green mathematicians – “Golden Section”.
Overall, Patek Philippe has always awed its enthusiasts and collectors with its distinctive watch concepts. This watchmaker is undeniably one of the most unrivalled leaders of Swiss luxury watchmaking.
Patek Philippe makes avant-garde watches without ever compromising the quality. And this makes Patek timepieces stand the test of time, holding excellent resale value with time.
Eventually, a Patek Philippe watch serves as a valuable asset to sell in a hard-up situation. However, if you want to sell a Patek Philippe watch, make sure you choose a trusted watch buyer like The Luxury Hut.
Our expert evaluators always keep track of the changing luxury watch market trends and prices. Thus, we can determine an accurate price for any pre-owned Patek Philippe watch. Want to know how much you can get for your Patek Philippe watch?
Fill in our online form with all details of your timepiece and get an instant free competitive quote.
Also Read: How to Verify the Authenticity of a Patek Philippe Watch?
Over the years, many Rolex watches have acquired appealing monikers after debuting in the market. And they are typically more recognised by their nicknames rather than their official names. However, while some Rolex models have been named after athletes or soda companies, others acquired nicknames inspired by superheroes.
And two of the most iconic Rolex watches and nicknames in the luxury watch industry are the “Hulk” and the “Batman”.
The Rolex Submariner with green bezel and dial acquired the moniker “Hulk”. On the other hand, the Rolex GMT-Master II featuring a black and blue ceramic bezel was nicknamed the “Batman”.
Undoubtedly, both models are top-rated and coveted among collectors globally. If you sell a Rolex Submariner Hulk today or a GMT-Master II Batman, rest assured you will secure a premium price for your Rolex timepiece, especially if it is in excellent condition.
However, the Rolex Hulk and Rolex Batman are also two entirely different models with different functionality. The former is a diver watch, whereas the latter one is a traveller timepiece.
Now, the question is – which superhero Rolex watch is better? Is it the Rolex Hulk or the GMT-Master II Batman? Let’s try to find an answer to this challenging question below.
Rolex turned up with two Submariner models in 2010 – Reference 116610LN and the Reference 116610LV. They featured bulkier 40mm stainless steel cases, broader crown guards and lugs. Moreover, Rolex equipped them with a Maxi dial with bigger luminous plots and hands. Now:
After three years, Rolex launched a new GMT-Master II in stainless steel with a blue-and-black ceramic bezel. And the watch captured collectors’ attention immediately. However, the dual-tone blue-and-black bezel acquired the nickname “Batman”.
Rolex offered both the Hulk and the Batman a 40mm stainless steel case, a rotatable bezel, a date aperture, luminous hour markers and Mercedes-style hands. However, the difference between the two models is here –
Additionally, the GMT-Master II features an added GMT hand along with three hands. And the Submariner sports the conventional three hands.
The Rolex Submariner Hulk comes with a three-link, brushed Oyster bracelet and a Glidelock clasp. However, Rolex offered the first Batman Reference 116710BLNR in an Oyster bracelet and later, the Batman Reference 126710BLNR debuted with a five-link Jubilee bracelet. However, the watch has since become available also on the Oyster bracelet.
Naturally, the Hulk and the Submariner are powered by different movements.
However, Rolex equipped both models with Triplock screw-down crown. Nonetheless, the GMT-Master II Batman is water-resistant to 300m, while the Submariner has a 300m depth rating.
The Rolex Hulk and the Batman belong to two different flagship collections from Rolex. Both watches may feature the same frameworks, almost similar materials and bright colours. But they are different in functionalities.
The Hulk is a professional diver watch that can reach up to 300m depth underwater. Reversely, the Batman is a GMT model that can track the time of three time zones simultaneously.
Regardless, both are extremely popular and celebrated Rolex sports watches. It is pretty impossible to state which model is better. Deciding on the right timepiece will depend on your lifestyle or intend of using the watch and your taste of colour.
The Hulk and the Batman are top-notch in quality, design and functionality in their way. Moreover, both models can fetch premium prices in the pre-owned market.
What model do you prefer – Rolex Hulk or Rolex Batman? Want to know how much your Rolex Batman is worth today? Call us on 0207 242 9160 now for an instant appraisal.
However, we buy all Rolex watches for the best possible prices in the resale market. Sell your Rolex online or via appointment. The process is simple, secure and hassle-free. Get paid within minutes.
Also Read: Rolex GMT-Master II Batman 116710BLNR Vs 126710BLNR
Rolex is unlike any other watch brands. This independently run, privately-held entity today enjoys an unparalleled global recognition and reverence. And this is the result of success in various fields over the years, from the ocean depths, mountain peaks, space explorations to associations with notable personalities like Paul Newman, James Bond, and film appearances.
The Swiss giant watchmaker has a universe of its own. It hardly permits anyone to enter its honoured walls and do not make their operations public. Rolex only produces watches. However, they work more than a mere timekeeper. The brand has taken the concept and standard of watchmaking to a new level.
Well, while you cannot head into the Rolex’s hallowed halls to see its operations, you can know about some fascinating facts that define the brand by reading this article. So, if you are a watch lover, continue reading below.
The illustrious journey of watchmaking started with the foundation of Wilsdorf & Davis Ltd in 1905 in London by Hans Wilsdorf and his brother-in-law Alfred Davis. Later, Hans Wilsdorf opened an office in Switzerland after registering the trademark “ROLEX” in 1908.
However, the company name was officially changed from “Wilsdorf & Davis Ltd.” to Rolex in 1915. Interestingly, there are many stories behind the Rolex name origination. One says that Hans Wilsdorf adhered to George Eastman’s lead. Eastman founded the name “Kodak” for his company, and his success paved the way for short, unique brand names.
According to another story, the name “Rolex” is a type of carry-on of “Horlogerie exquise”, a French phrase. However, Hans Wilsdorf had never confirmed what the inspiration behind the name Rolex is. Nevertheless, Rolex is undoubtedly a success.
In 1910, a Rolex watch received the Swiss Certificate of Chronometric Precision. Interestingly, it was the first-ever wristwatch globally to achieve this certificate that the Official Watch Rating Centre in Bienne granted. Later, Rolex patented the first-ever waterproof Oyster watch in 1926.
Rolex introduced the Datejust in 1945 as the first self-winding watch with a date display on the dial. Another iconic creation from Rolex was the Submariner in 1953. It was the first diver’s timepiece to have a water-resistant ability to reach a 100m depth.
Other Rolex patents include a helium escape valve in 1967, a unique 904L stainless steel in 1985, and the Parachrom hairspring.
Rolex uses unique steel that no other watch brands use. Steel is available in several types and grades. However, most steel watches are crafted of 316L steel. But Rolex makes all the steel watches from 904L stainless steel.
Rolex introduced its exclusive 904L steel in 1988. This steel type is more corrosion and rust-resistant and much harder than other steels. Moreover, the 904L steel is pretty harder than other steel types and can also hold polishes exceptionally well.
Now, you may wonder why no other watchmakers use this steel in manufacturing their timepieces. The first significant reason is that the 904L steel is costlier and highly difficult to produce. It requires unique tools and expertise. Rolex is the only brand that has stepped ahead to take advantage of the 904L steel.
It’s actually no surprise to know that the watchmaker who is so particular about its watches’ quality and precision has its Research & Development department. In fact, Rolex has many professional and well-equipped science laboratories at its different facilities. In addition, the watchmaker researches its new watches, innovations, and more effective manufacturing processes.
Moreover, the brand’s laboratories are outstanding, as well as diverse. And the chemistry lab is ideally the most visually fascinating, equipped with tubes and beakers carrying gases and liquids. The highly trained scientists in the chemistry lab develop and research lubricants and oils that are used during the production process.
Furthermore, the Rolex factory has a room consisting of gas spectrometers and electron microscopes. Rolex scientists use these types of machinery to examine the metals and materials closely, maintaining the quality standards they ensure to offer.
However, another exciting room in the brand’s factory is the stress test room. The watchmaker instigates wear and abuse on its watch parts and movements via customised robots and machines.
Rolex may have the most sophisticated machines and robots to help in their watch manufacturing process. But all its watches receive hands-on human attention. Rolex uses machines and robots to file, sort, catalogue, and other highly complicated works.
However, from bracelets to movements, every part in a Rolex watch is hand-assembled. Rolex is compulsive regarding quality control. The skilled artisans at the Rolex factory check, re-check and again check everything meticulously. This is also done before and after Rolex sends their movements for COSC certification.
Manufacturers used to send their handmade marine chronometers for testing at astronomical observatories like Geneva and Kew in the days gone by. Although every observatory had its specific standards, Kew was known to have the most stringent of all. Kew Observatory offered an A-class certificate only to the timepieces that performed exceptionally well. Thus, Kew tests were much more demanding than the test conducted by COSC today.
A Rolex watch earned the first Kew A certificate in 1914. However, Kew offered this certificate for the first time to a timepiece of that kind. In the 1940s, the company sent nearly 145 small watch movements for Kew testing. And surprisingly, 136 movements earned the Kew A certificates.
The watchmaker finished all these movements by hands, and its master timer Jean Matile adjusted each of them. They housed most of the movements in 32mm steel watches. In addition, however, Rolex equipped twenty-four of the movements in 34mm gold watch cases. And undoubtedly, these timepieces are among the most desirable in the world.
Rolex utilises several highly diligent security checks, and you will be fascinated to know that they possess a Bond-style safe. And the safe is situated a few floors underground. Everything is first scanned and then catalogued. Moreover, The brand attributes a unique serial number to each of its movements. Finally, they photograph the serial number and matches it with a case that also comes with a unique serial number. Now:
If anyone has to access the brand’s safe, they need to enter a bank vault door and pass an iris scanner that recognises your identity through your eyes. Overall, the watchmaker is very strict and cautious about their security as we all know that Rolex watches are sound investments.
This Swiss giant has an extensive gemological department involved in buying, testing, arranging and setting precious stones, including diamonds in several Rolex watches. They meticulously check the gemstones they buy from their suppliers to confirm their authenticity. For example, they ensures the diamonds’ authenticity using x-rays.
Moreover, every batch of diamonds also undergoes testing to ensure premium quality. Thus, their diamonds are of IF clarity and range from D to G in colour grade – the watchmaker hand-choose and handset every diamond on its watches.
Rolex does not employ any shortcut techniques to manufacture its watches. The brand is very particular about its watches’ efficiency and quality. They only continue seeing how they can improve more and more. You will see that the brand upgrades its collection with a new size, movement or material but keeps the original design and aesthetics the same.
From beginning to shape the case to testing a watch for accuracy, the entire process takes nearly a year. Every model needs many parts, and almost everything is made in-house from the base. After that, expert artisans at the factory hand-assemble and hand-test every watch. Furthermore, they are checked and re-checked again intensely. Taken all these processes together, they takes nearly one year to make a watch.
Rolex makes virtually every part of its watches in its factory. The brand produces its cases, dials, bezels, bracelets, movements and gold. Besides the complicated machines, Rolex also invests in the techniques and processes. However, while they make almost everything in-house, the brand is genuinely independent.
If you love watches, you love Rolex. They are perhaps the most successful high-end watchmakers and the most successful luxury brands in the globe.
Want to sell a Rolex watch in London? Fill in our online form and get a free competitive quote instantly. Or call on 0207 242 9160 now.
Rolex dive watches are some of the most coveted timepieces in the world. And it’s not surprising as they are backed by an illustrious history, notable collaborations, robust and unique designs and precise movements.
Currently, the Rolex catalogue consists of four dive watch collections – the Submariner Date, the Submariner No-Date, the Sea-Dweller and the Deepsea.
The Submariner is available in various materials, bezel and dial options. The Submariner No-Date was the first dive timepiece from Rolex, introduced in 1953. However, Rolex also produced the Deepsea to participate in several ocean expeditions. Continue reading to explore more.
Rolex introduced a new generation of Submariner watches last year in 2020, offering a new 41mm case diameter. The new Submariner Date and Submariner No-Date models are powered by Calibre 3235 and Calibre 3230, respectively. Both the movements are COSC certified. This signifies that the watches will lose or gain more than 2 seconds per day.
The Submariner watches come with metal bracelets and a uni-directional rotatable ceramic bezel. However, Rolex equipped the bracelets with an exclusive Glidelock system. It allows adjusting the bracelet, offering a comfortable fit even over a diving suit.
Rolex developed the Sea-Dweller in collaboration with COMEX. The Sea-Dweller accompanied the COMEX divers on their wrist while underwater. In 1972, two COMEX divers survived nearly 50 hours at 610m depth in a pressurized chamber.
The Rolex Sea-Dweller COMEX timepieces are rare and, eventually, expensive. In 1967, Rolex began to mass-produce the Sea-Dweller offering a helium escape valve. The watch could combat water pressure to 610m depth. However, Rolex increased the water-resistant power of the Sea-Dweller to an impressive 1,220m in 1980.
In 2017, Rolex introduced a new Sea-Dweller version to celebrate its 50th anniversary, replacing the 2014’s model. The watch currently measures 43mm in diameter and features red letting on its dial. Other features include the Cyclops lens and diver’s bezel with 60-minute graduations.
Rolex developed the Deepsea with an entirely new case design that could complement the tremendous water resistance. The watch featured a grade 5 titanium case back, an inner BioDur 108 steel ring, a 904L steel case and a sapphire crystal of 5.5mm thickness. Rolex designed the watch to withstand 4,900m depth.
In 2012, Rolex developed a uniquely designed watch, the “Deepsea Challenge” for James Cameron’s underwater project “Deepsea Challenge”. The watch was fitted outside of Cameron’s submersible vehicle. Moreover, the Rolex Deepsea Challenge watch was water-resistant up to 12,000m depth and featured the Ringlock system.
While all Rolex dive watches are extremely popular and desirable, they retain an excellent resale value. This means that your Rolex Submariner or Sea-Dweller can fetch you top prices from potential watch buyers in the pre-owned market.
Want to know how much your Rolex is worth? Fill in our online form now or call on 0207 242 9160. Sell your Rolex online or via appointment. The process is quick, secure and hassle-free. From getting a quote to getting paid, the process may take as little as an hour to complete. So contact us today.
Also Read: 5 New Rolex Watches for 2021
Have you run out of money? Need some fast cash? No worries, you can get the amount of money you need within minutes by getting in touch with the trusted pawnbrokers in London at The Luxury Hut.
In difficult or uncertain times, like the current pandemic situation, you may need some fast cash to pay off your electric bills, medical bills or maybe for any other reasons. And in a financially dire situation, pawning your precious asset is ideally the best choice that you can make.
The Luxury Hut pawn shop London offers a quick and secure way to pawn luxury assets & get instant cash. We lend against luxury watches, diamond jewellery and gold. With our expert evaluators always on hand, we ensure to make the pawnbroking process more convenient than ever.
So what are the advantages of choosing us as your trusted pawnbrokers? Continue reading below to find it out.
With trusted pawnbrokers London at The Luxury Hut, you can obtain a cash loan within a few hours. To begin the process, all you have to do is fill in our simple online form. Provide us with all the details of the item you want to use as collateral for your pawn loan. Or you can call us on 0207 242 9160 straight.
We will evaluate your item based on the details provided and give you a free competitive loan quote. If you are happy with it, send us your asset or visit our office in Hatton Garden London via appointment.
We will make you our final cash loan offer. Accept it, sign a pledge receipt, and we will pay you immediately via bank transfer or any other preferred method of payment. The entire process requires much less paperwork.
Whether you pawn your asset online or via appointment, the process may take as little as a few hours to complete.
We do not carry out any credit check before lending money against your collateral, nor we have any other obligations to get a pawn loan.
Get a loan against your Rolex watch or any diamond or gold jewellery without any hassle. We will offer you the highest possible amount of cash loan, based on your collateral’s age, condition, current market price and a few other essential factors.
You may only need to provide us with proof of ID to get into the transaction. However, another significant factor that makes The Luxury Hut the best choice as the most trusted pawnbrokers in London is –
Unlike other pawnbrokers, we do not charge set-up fees for any assets pawned with us.
At The Luxury Hut, we always strive to make the pawnbroking process straightforward and hassle-free as much as possible. We provide a contact-free home collection to all our customers.
You can send your asset(s) to us from the comfort of your home or anywhere using our contact-free home collection and a fully insured shipping label.
This means that pawning your luxury watch/jewellery online and securing extra cash is now more convenient than ever.
The maximum pawn loan tenure is six to seven months. However, you can redeem your item(s) any time before your loan term ends by paying off the original loan amount and the interest due up to that day. We do not charge any early retrieval fees.
Want to know more about our interest rates or how our loan process works? Call us on 0207 242 9160 now, and we will be happy to answer any queries you have on pawning your asset with us.
Or, if you want to get a quote for a loan against watches or jewellery, fill in our simple online form today.
Vacheron Constantin adds the Traditionnelle Split-Seconds Chronograph Ultra-Thin as a 2021 novelty this year to its ultra-exclusive Excellence Platine collection. Almost all parts of this watch are crafted of platinum. And it houses a movement that is a modern interpretation of the classic Rattrapante movement. However, the brand made several enhancements to the movement, including a peripheral winding rotor.
Being a part of the brand’s Traditionelle family, this Traditionelle Split-Seconds Chronograph Ultra-Thin flaunts a more classical design style. The watch manifests Vacheron Constantin’s innovative spirit, backed by an identity that commemorates heritage and delivers the unexpected.
Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Split-Seconds Chronograph Ultra-Thin watch is made up of 950 Platinum and comes in a 42.5mm case. The watch flaunts a mirror-grade polishing and sharp edges on curled lugs with a flat platinum bezel on it.
However, the dial exhibits a traditional-styled chronograph layout and a sapphire crystal topping it. The dial configuration reflects the wartime and post-war-era Vacheron Constantin split-second chronographs. But the watchmaker did not highlight any specific heritage reference taken as inspiration for the new Traditionnelle Split-Seconds Ultra-Thin Chronograph.
However, you cannot miss catching a glimpse of the Maltese Cross set at 12-hour side above the brand’s logo. While two slender Dauphine hands show the minutes and hours, the two blued-hands determine the split-seconds chronograph.
A split-seconds chronograph is a mechanical complication employed for tracking two different elapsed time. In the new Traditionnelle Split-Seconds Chronograph –
The Vacheron Constantin Calibre 3500 movement make this split-seconds chronograph complication possible, powering the new Traditionnelle Ultra-Thin watch. You can see this highly embellished movement through a sapphire exhibition window on the platinum case-back. However, this automatic movement features a 22ct yellow gold peripheral rotor that is just 5.2mm thick. It has a 48-hour power reserve and about 21,600vph frequency.
Overall, the Vacheron Constantin Traditionnelle Split-Seconds Ultra-Thin Chronograph is an exclusive part of the Collection Excellence Platine. This collection consists of watches crafted entirely of 950 Platinum, including case, bezel, dial and buckle.
Do you want to sell a Vacheron Constantin watch? Fill up our online form now and receive a free valuation immediately. Or call on 0207 242 9160. You can also WhatsApp us for an instant valuation.
With exciting releases from big brands like Rolex and Patek Philippe, 2021 feels fascinating than usual. Green is now the most prominent watch colour trend in the watch industry, and the latest brand to bang on the trend is Audemars Piguet.
Audemars Piguet has currently unveiled new Royal Oak watches with exquisite green dials. The latest releases include a platinum Royal Oak ‘Jumbo’ Extra-Thin Reference 15202 and a Royal Oak Self-winding Chronograph Limited Edition. The brand also introduced three new Self-winding Flying Tourbillon versions in titanium or pink gold and green dials.
However, the most coveted models among the latest AP launches will ideally be the Royal Oak ‘Jumbo’ Extra-Thin Watch. Continue reading to explore more. And those who want to sell AP watches can fill up our simple form to get a free competitive price quote.
Audemars Piguet offered the new ‘Jumbo’ Royal Oak in a 950 platinum case with 39mm diameter and thickness of 8.10mm, offering an ultra-slim silhouette. However, the case frames a smoky green dial that flaunts the signature Royal Oak luminous hands and white-gold hour markers.
AP has further fitted the movement with a 22ct gold oscillating weight. However, Audemars Piguet has reserved the new Royal Oak Extra-Thin ‘Jumbo’ for AP House Collectors.
Also Read: Audemars Piguet [Re]master01 Automatic Chronograph
An updated Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph also made its debut in a new colourway, thereby becoming a part of the green revolution. The watch features a 41mm yellow case framing a striking ‘Grande Tapisserie’ green pattern dial.
However, the new Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph watch houses the Manufacture Calibre 2385 self-winding movement.
The new Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Selfwinding Chronograph will be available in only 125pieces. The model comes equipped with a yellow gold bracelet. However, two additional straps will accompany the watch – green rubber and green calfskin.
AP has unleashed three new Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon Limited Edition watches. Each model features a 41mm case and a green sunburst Tapisserie dial.
Interestingly, the emerald’s green tones magnify the Tapisserie dial’s green tint. However, Audemars Piguet has equipped all three Royal Oak Selfwinding Flying Tourbillon with Manufacture Calibre 2950. This movement is the most current generation of the brand’s flying tourbillon. It offers a minimum of 65hours of power reserve and beats at 3 Hz frequency.
Want to sell your Audemars Piguet watch and raise fast cash? Here at The Luxury Hut, we can buy your luxury watch for the best possible price and pay you within minutes. Fill up our online form now to get a free valuation or call on 0207 242 9160.
Also Read: How do I know my AP watch is real or fake?
Find out the facts to know your AP watch is real or fake. Audemars Piguet is a highly esteemed Swiss watchmaker, recognised and cherished for its high-end luxury watches and ingenious functionalities. Audemars Piguet watches represent incredible craftsmanship and luxury. While they retain their value exceptionally well with time, Audemars Piguet watches serve as excellent investment pieces.
Keeping in mind its desirability and demand, Audemars Piguet watches are among the world’s most counterfeited pieces. However, a few ways can help you differentiate between a real and fake AP watch.
Please continue reading below to check them out, as it is also essential to confirm the authenticity before you head out to sell your Audemars Piguet watch.
The leading Swiss watchmaker, Audemars Piguet, uses the highest quality of all materials to produce its watch. Thus, each watch comes with an impeccable finish, glaze and top-notch durability. With this in mind, here are the things that you need to examine –
One of the most copied AP watches is the iconic Royal Oak. So a genuine Royal Oak will showcase a very fine brush-finish, running vertically throughout the timepiece.
The brand creates each of its timepiece using precious metals that add substantial heft to it. Moreover, automatic movements are heavier than quartz ones that serve as an alternative to costlier mechanical movements.
Thus, check whether the AP watch on your hand feels light or heavy. If it feels light, then the timepiece is a fake one.
Audemars Piguet offers its watches a unique dial design ‘Tapisserie’ that counterfeiters find pretty challenging to copy. Forgers can either replicate the complicated ‘Tapisserie’ dial pattern entirely or mess the design. So, examine the dial with the utmost attention.
Another significant aspect you need to examine is the watch’s movement. Counterfeiters typically focus on making a timepiece look like a real deal. But they cannot replicate the internal functions of genuine and authentic timepieces.
Take the watch close to your ears and see whether it is making a ticking sound. High-end Swiss watchmakers like Audemars Piguet have strived hard over the years to refine their craftsmanship. So high-quality movements powering the Swiss watches are virtually inaudible.
If you hear a ticking sound, the Audemars Piguet watch is likely a fake one.
If the Audemars Piguet’s watch you are looking at shows imperfect or unclear stamps or engravings, it is likely a fake one. However, the fact is that the technology utilised to produce replica timepieces has become so advanced that it can be challenging to differentiate between an authentic and a fake AP watch.
However, make sure to check the spelling of the brand’s name on the timepiece in question. Misspelt brand names are pretty common in counterfeit watches.
Also, look for the text fonts and colour on the case-back. Genuine Audemars Piguet watches display a bit narrower text on the case-back and has a blackened look.
The original box, papers with serial number or certificate can verify the authenticity of an AP watch. They can also offer substantial insight into the timepiece’s history and quality.
However, a second hand Audemars Piguet watch may not retain its original box and papers. But it won’t signify that the timepiece is a replica.
If you are still unsure whether your AP is real or fake, it is better to consult with watch experts and verify the watch’s authenticity.
Explore More:
Audemars Piguet [Re]master01 Automatic Chronograph
Audemars Piguet Flying Tourbillon Chronograph Code 11.59
Yes, you hear it right. Patek Philippe stopped producing the iconic Nautilus Reference 5711.
The brand has discontinued not only one of its most iconic models but also one of the world’s most popular and coveted watches. This news is certainly not that watch enthusiasts across the globe anticipated at the start of 2021.
The irony is that one of the most talked-about timepieces of 2021 is not a brand-new launch but, instead, discontinuation.
The Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711 is much more than a mere timekeeper. And the brand ceased its production when virtually all watch collectors today want to buy the watch for vast gobs of money.
However, the leading watchmaker, Patek Philippe, must have little logic to stop producing a globally popular item. Perhaps it is a smart move, and one might need to do something like this at a time.
Continue reading to find out what’s the actual logic behind such a surprising move by Patek Philippe.
Patek Philippe has been producing the Nautilus Reference 5711 for about 43years. However, its demand escalated a few years ago. As per reports in 2019, the waiting list for this particular model extended for eight years. Now:
While the brand discontinued the Nautilus 5711, the waitlist will extend forever. But the interesting fact is that Patek Philippe has stopped producing the timepiece back in 2019. They remained tight-lipped.
Of course, Patek’s enthusiasts and collectors were upset about it, and the same was the retailers. Lots of people have been eagerly waiting to buy and sell this watch. And now, the only way to get this model would be to dive into the second hand market and purchase it for staggering gobs of money.
So the question is – why Patek Philippe discontinued its most popular and sought-after creation?
Patek Philippe’s President, Thierry Stern, speaking to the Times, has said –
“We are doing this for our clients who already own a Patek Philippe and to protect our brand from becoming too commercial.”
“I can continue to make this fantastic product or sell 10 times more of them. But I am not working for numbers. I am protecting the company for the future, for my children.”
Stern is well-aware that discontinuing the iconic Nautilus 5711 will upset its global fans and collectors. However, as Stern stated, he followed a lesson that his father taught him, and today he is passing down the same to his children.
“When you have a fantastic brand like Patek, you have to protect the brand and not just one product,” he said.
Well, this is a brilliant move or rather a smart decision for high-end timepieces. But it works well not only for watches but also with other top-selling things in the world.
The Nautilus Reference 5711 in stainless steel and a vibrant blue dial became so famous that its significance changed. Depending on the person, the watch represented many things. While some blazed it as a sign of wealth, others considered it the epitome of modern watch design.
Moreover, the Nautilus Reference 5711 was a unique steel sports timepiece from a brand more recognised for dress watches for many people. The watch was enjoying a fascinating demand and price surge. And the waitlist also extended before Patek announced its discontinuation.
The Nautilus 5711 will have a successor or successors. However, Reference 5711 is a significant part of Patek Philippe’s past but not its future.
Nonetheless, if you are looking to sell a Patek Philippe watch for the best price in London, fill up our online form or call on 0207 242 9160 for a free competitive quote.
The Luxury Hut buys all luxury watches of leading brands like Rolex, Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Cartier and Omega, be it is vintage or contemporary. We determine accurate prices of any luxury watches sold to us, considering all significant factors like its brand, model, age, condition and current market price. Thus, you can rest assured that you will receive the best possible price for your luxury timepiece from us. Here we have listed six watch brands that hold their value exceptionally well and that we at The Luxury Hut will buy for top prices.
When it comes to naming watch brands that retain their value well, Rolex tops the list. Backed by a rich history, Rolex epitomises the ultimate luxury, precision and status. With their ingenious creations and achievements over the years, the brand has set a standard in the luxury watch world, becoming the world’s most prestigious and coveted watchmakers.
Cartier is associated with prestige and royalty. Cartier watches represent the brand’s technical and innovative mastery that offers them a unique position within the luxury watch industry. The brand has always stayed at the forefront of Haute horology, thereby making them worthy of investment. Watches by Cartier hold their value well with the time that makes them highly desirable in the pre-owned market.
Jaeger-LeCoultre’s legacy in the art of manufacturing automatic movements dates back to 1833. The brand has even commissioned mechanical movements for other watch brands. From sports models to casual dress or classic watches, each example by Jaeger-LeCoultre represents the brand’s dedication to attaining utmost precision and durability.
With nearly 177 years of watchmaking legacy, this brand creates mechanical masterpieces using top-notch materials and movements that enable them to retain a fantastic resale value. A Patek Philippe watch symbolises power, class and exclusivity. A Patek model can fetch you a premium in the resale market, especially if it is in excellent working condition and retains all original paperwork.
This highly prestigious watch brand is popular for the superior quality and uniqueness of its watches. The rich materials, techniques, design and complex functionalities make the brand stand out from the rest. Audemars Piguet takes a year to create, design and produce a timepiece. Considering these factors, it’s no surprise that AP watches retain excellent resale value.
Bell & Ross has been famous among watch lovers for many years and still enjoys global desirability due to their constant innovation and evolution. As guaranteed by the brand, their timepieces are made by professionals for professionals. Each watch model is made using premium quality materials, durable movements and incorporating meticulous process.
It pretty rare to see Audemars Piguet launching an entirely new watch collection and the luxury watch industry got to come across such an instance last year. The Le Brassus watchmaker launched the new Audemars Piguet [Re]master01 series in a limited edition of 500 pieces.
![Audemars Piguet [Re]master01](https://www.theluxuryhut.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/ap-watch.jpg "Audemars Piguet [Re]master01")
Interestingly, the brand designed this automatic chronograph taking inspiration from a beautiful timepiece from 1943. The new chronograph is not a historical reissue. But in fact, the watch incorporates all essential components of an ultra-rare chronograph and sports a new automatic movement within a slightly bigger case.
Continue reading to find out more on the Audemars Piguet [Re]master01 Automatic Chronograph. However, if you are looking to sell watches in London, call us on 0207 242 9160 today. The Luxury Hut aims to buy luxury watches of elite brands like Audemars Piguet, Rolex and more for the best price in the second-hand market.
In the 20th century, Audemars Piguet had made only a few chronographs – only about 307 if you count. And the [Re]master01 is among the most exciting series.
AP produced the [Re]master01 in a limited number of 500pieces. The brand made only 307 chronographs between the 1930s and the 1950s. And AP has re-created just three iterations of this particular style – the pre-edition 1533 dating back to 1943.
The [Re]master01 appears very similar to the actual timepiece from 1943. However, if you look at its specifications, you will realize it is much more than that original model.
Moreover, AP furnished the [Re]master01 with a gold-toned dial with pink gold seconds, minute and hour hands and contrasting blue chronograph hands.
However, the watch retains the art deco-inspired numerals like present in the original model and the unique “4|5” on the 30minutes-counter. But the watchmaker has simply rearranged the chronograph counters for improving the watch’s readability.
The features like the unusual two-tone case with case-back, lugs and case-band crafted from stainless steel and pink gold pushers, bezel and crown on this watch are similar to the original version. No doubt, the old school logo “AUDEMARS, PIGUET & CO/ GENEVE” looks cool.
![Audemars Piguet [Re]master01 automatic](https://www.theluxuryhut.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/02/ap-watch-movement.jpg "Audemars Piguet [Re]master01 automatic")
Audemars Piguet equipped the [Re]master01 chronograph with the Calibre 4409 movement. The watchmaker has created this automatic movement maintaining the highest standards that one can expect from Audemars Piguet.
Well, this in-house movement might look pretty familiar to you. The fact is that the Calibre 4409 is an upgraded version of the Calibre 4401 that made its debut with CODE 11.59 chronograph.
However, the movement is visible through the newly fitted sapphire case-back. The Calibre 4409 comes with a satin-polished clous de Paris embellished oscillating weight made of 22ct pink gold. It offers a power reserve of 70hours.
The [Re]master01 Automatic Chronograph is available in two bracelet choices – a dark brown alligator strap and a light brown hand-stitched brown calf. It retains the ethos of the original model’s era.
We at The Luxury Hut can buy your AP watch for a fair and competitive price. Fill up our simple online form with all details of your timepiece and get a free quote shortly. Or call on 0207 242 9160 for an instant appraisal over the phone and book an appointment at our Hatton Garden office in London.
Sell your watch online or via appointment in London or from anywhere in the UK. Nonetheless, we will make the process convenient for you. We offer a Contact-free home collection service with a pre-paid shipping label to send your watch to us, ensuring your and our safety. Thus, get in touch with us today to sell your AP watch or watches of any other leading watch brands.
Switzerland is reported to have experienced about 25.8% shrink in watch exports. According to the Federation of the Swiss Watch Industry (FH), this is a record-breaking decline in watch exports over the past 80 years.
Indeed, it is grievous news for the watch industry. However, keeping in mind the global pandemic, it is pretty obvious to have almost-ceasing international flying and watch fairs’ cancellations.
On the other hand, the market for vintage and pre-owned watches is significantly blooming. The record-breaking auction results and massive sales fascinated the watch industry. Prices for vintage Rolex timepieces are continuing to stay strong as ever.
However, it is interesting to see a steep rise in watch prices of many other brands. So given the global pandemic situation, why the vintage watch world is thriving so much today?
Here, find out the probable reasons, and if you are looking to sell your vintage watch, fill up our online form and get a free competitive quote now. While the vintage market is booming, your timepiece is likely to secure you top prices.
Many collectors typically consider vintage timepieces as a safer investment than the contemporary ones. These watches are discontinued at least for a few decades and thus, are limited in numbers. This attracts the collector’s attraction.
Moreover, finding a popular vintage watch edition in good condition becomes more challenging with every passing year. This again signifies rarity and eventually, increases the appeal.
Due to the global pandemic, the government has to put restrictions on travelling, entertainments, dining and all gatherings. Consequently, watch collectors or enthusiasts get some more free time to research, gather details and explore the vintage watch world.
Gaining knowledge is an essential part of the watch collecting process. The more time you spend on knowing vintage timepieces, the more it will lure you to them, leading to more models on your wish-list.
Along with exploring the vintage watch world’s catalogue, many individuals are lucky enough to continue having a stable income, working from home or otherwise. However, with the restrictions on outing and entertainment, people have only a few opportunities for spending expendable money.
And a watch enthusiast will always wish to invest on a cherished watch with that cash and upgrade or build his/her collection.
Vintage watches have a unique and compelling appeal that lacks in a brand new or contemporary models. Current Rolex watches look like any other, and their design is likely to be the same in the coming years. Indeed, the watchmakers have improved their watches’ quality and several complications over the years. For example, the dial manufacturing and engraving process has changed.
So you will not find tropical dials with font variations any more like ‘meters first’, ‘closed 6’ and ‘open 6’. However, these types of variations play a significant part of the appeal in the pre-owned and vintage watch market. And these variations are the driving factors behind vintage watches’ elevated prices.
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The Luxury Hut has expert evaluators who continually track the changing market trends and prices of luxury watches. We can determine a fair and accurate value of any second hand Rolex watches that customers want to sell. Thus, get in touch with us today to sell your watch for the best possible price, whether it is a vintage model or contemporary.
In the vintage Rolex collecting world, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona holds a significant place. Vintage watch collectors are incredibly passionate about the manual-wound Daytona chronographs that eventually fetch astronomical prices at auction.
Several vintage Rolex Daytona models have gained iconic levels of collectability. However, one of the most coveted vintage Daytona of all time is the Reference 6263. Let’s take a look at this iconic Daytona ‘Big Red’ reference of the vintage Rolex family.
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The Rolex Daytona 6263 was in production from the late 60s to nearly 1988. The watch features the second generation of screw-down chronograph pushers and the text ‘Oyster’ on the dial indicate its water-resistance ability.
However, the hallmark that distinguishes the Daytona 6263 from its siblings is the black acrylic bezel.
So the signature acrylic black bezel framing the round watch’s face changes the aesthetic, offering a little larger appearance overall.
Rolex offered the Daytona Reference 6263 in different dial variations, attaining names like Paul Newman dials and the ‘Big Red’ dials. No doubt, the Reference 6263 featuring the Paul Newman dials receive more collectors’ attention and thus, sell for astronomical prices at auction.
However, the ‘Big Red’ dial type of this iconic Daytona watch is also highly sought-after among collectors.
However, all examples of the Reference 6263 do not feature the bright red ‘DAYTONA’ name on the dials.
Some Reference 6263 models even do not have the name ‘Daytona’ engraved on the dial, depending on production year and dial style. On the other hand, some watches may flaunt the red ‘Daytona’ name on them, but they can vary in the font size.
Thus, the terms ‘Big Red Daytona’ and ‘Small Red Daytona’ are frequently used within vintage Rolex collecting circles, indicating different font sizes of the red ‘Daytona’ text engraved on the dial.
Moreover, the dials also vary based on the red Daytona name’s position above the sub-dial at the 6 o’clock side. For instance, the Rolex Daytona Floating Big Red Ref. 6263 has the red ‘DAYTONA’ name printed further away from the sub-dial in comparison to other examples.
The Daytona Reference 6263 represents a perfect combination of vintage and modern Rolex chronograph features. And this makes the watch so collectable. Rolex designed and produced this timepiece just before upgrading the Daytona series offering a contemporary touch.
Overall, Rolex Cosmograph Daytona is one of the mainstay collections in the brand’s catalogue. And the Daytona Reference 6263 Big Red is one of the most sought-after vintage watches of all time.
Want to know how much your Rolex is worth? Fill up our online form now and get a free competitive quote. Or call us on 0207 242 9160. Sell Rolex watches, vintage or contemporary for the best possible price to The Luxury Hut.
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5 Unknown Facts about the Vintage Rolex “Red Submariner” 1680
The term ‘Swiss Made’ is a significant seal of approval, and a symbol of quality recognised and revered worldwide. Today, over half of the total luxury timepieces are manufactured in Switzerland. Swiss watch brands are expensive because they are sophisticatedly designed and meet the highest level of craftsmanship. They are made using the highest quality components and the most complicated movements, enabling them to retain their value well with time. Here is a list of the Top 6 Swiss watch brands that characterise the standard of the watchmaking industry today with their top-notch innovations and creations.
The ‘Crown king’ is the most acknowledged watch brand in the global watch industry. Founded in 1905, Rolex has cemented its famed status with several avant-garde creations like the water-proof Oyster case, perpetual movement and first watch with the automatic date changing functionality. A Rolex watch is a symbol of luxury, precision and durability.
Omega has a long history of producing exceptional watches. Established in 1903, this Swiss watch brand is known to be one of the finest creators of chronographs and movements. The timepieces with classic designs such as the Speedmaster and Seamaster have remained unchanged, stylish and smart over the years. The high-quality movements exhibit that no watch lose a second in any circumstances.
It is one of those watchmakers whose watches achieve record-breaking sums almost regularly at the biggest auction house. Patek Philippe Henry Graves ‘Supercomplication’ sold for 16 million GBP in 2014, becoming the most expensive watch ever sold at auction. Patek Philippe watches are popular for many features like perpetual calendar, minute repeater and split-seconds hand.
Founded in 1755, Vacheron Constantin has a rich history in making complicated timepieces. By the early 20th century, the brand was acknowledged as one of the most significant, complicated watchmakers globally. The watches of this brand epitomise an excellent investment in respect to design, complications and artistry.
The watches of this Swiss watch brand are recognised as highly prestigious, and they stand out because of their high-quality and precision. An Audemars Piguet timepiece represents a fine, mechanical watch finished to perfection and manufactured with excellent craftsmanship. In 1925, the brand produced the thinnest pocket watch in the world, followed by the ever-first skeleton watch after three years.
Breitling is one of the Swiss watch brands to attain the COSC chronometer certification – awarded for precision and accuracy of Swiss chronometer timepieces. The iconic watches of this brand are typically influenced by aviation and diving. However, the characteristic watch features include polished cases and large, legible dials.
The holiday season has rolled in, and the Christmas spirit is already whirling in the air. The tree might be up, you have written your cards, but you might be still in search of the perfect Christmas gift for your loved one.
Why not make this Christmas extra special by giving an exclusive gift that will last your loved one for a lifetime? Rather than a gift that they are likely to forget in a year, a luxury watch or a piece of jewellery will be cherished and remembered for years to come.
A luxury watch, diamond and gold jewellery are excellent investments. And buying any of them as a gift for your loved one can indeed exhibit how much you adore him/her. So here are some of the best luxury gifts to treat your loved one extra special this Christmas.
From classic dress watches, robust diving watches to branded diamond bracelets, rings and earrings, there is something for every style, personality and budget at The Luxury Hut. Take a look!
It might be now the most coveted gift across the world. Receiving a Rolex Submariner Hulk could be simply a dream for your gift recipient. You must be aware that Rolex has discontinued the ‘Hulk’ in 2020. Eventually, its desirability has increased at a higher level.
The most famous Rolex timepieces have a few common things. They are inevitably stylish and sleek and are designed to last for generations. And the iconic Rolex Submariner is undoubtedly one of them.
The Submariner Hulk is precisely one of the most famous Rolex watches of all time, transcending boundaries.
While the Rolex Submariner Hulk has been discontinued, its desirability has increased more than ever. Thus, this watch would be undoubtedly a unique Christmas gift to express your unconditional love and care.
Ideally, it is a perfect Christmas gift for your girlfriend, wife, daughter or any other special woman in your life. Cartier Love bracelet is special because it symbolises eternal love and commitment.
So consider this 18ct Rose Gold Cartier Love bracelet from the iconic Love collection for her this Christmas. The bracelet comes with four diamonds that magnify its sparkle and brilliance.
Cartier is globally recognised and revered for its unique creations that exhibit unparallel design, elegance and artistry. And the Love bracelet is among the most popular and coveted jewellery item in the world. They are timeless, subtle and elegant.
For decades, the Omega Speedmaster has been a symbol of luxury and outstanding craftsmanship. Omega has made several upgrades to this flagship collection over time in terms of specifications and design. This Omega Speedmaster Co-Axial Chronograph is an exceptional luxury watch as it exhibits the brand’s pioneering spirit.
So is your gift recipient fond of elegance and perfection? If so, then this Omega Speedmaster Chronograph watch is an excellent gift option for you. Take a look now! More interestingly, this watch is available with a full set, including original box and papers at The Luxury Hut.
From diamond stud, hoops to danglers, there are plenty of earrings available at The Luxury Hut. However, the one we can suggest you to consider exclusively for this festive occasion is this Van Cleef & Arpels earring.
Van Cleef & Arpels are among the best jewellers in the world and their jewellery design, settings and materials are of top-notch quality and one-of-its-kind. And every piece is created with utmost care and precision. So this pair of 18ct yellow gold Alhambra earrings can be a lovely surprise for that special woman this Christmas.
And like the above ones, this gift would also be something that will accompany your gift recipient a lifetime, reminding them of the value they have in your life.
With a 45mm dimension, the Zenith El Primero Chronograph features an exquisite rose gold case, silver dial with contrasting gold baton hour markers and black alligator strap.
This luxury watch brand has 150years old history in the watchmaking and known for many avant-garde creations. In fact, Zenith is popular and sought-after for its superior expertise in watchmaking. Thus, when it comes to choosing the best luxury watches, this Zenith El Primero Grand Moonphase Chronograph is a great choice.
Well, these are some of the best luxury gifts that you can consider to present your loved ones this Christmas. However, there are also many other luxury watches and jewellery items of different style and budget available at The Luxury Hut.
Sometimes you may wish to give someone something really exclusive that will represent or strengthen your bond. And the best way to do that is by getting something expensive that they may not have received otherwise.
Thus, browse our extensive collection now and get the perfect luxury gift to make this Christmas unique and memorable for your special someone.
Christie’s Rare Watches New York: Online auction opened on November 24 and will continue until December 10. However, the star lot of the auction is known to be a double-signed Patek Philippe 1463R of 1950.
Undoubtedly, the auction market showcased unexpected sales amidst the global pandemic. Rare and one-of-its-kind luxury watches like this Patek featuring at Christie’s auction have changed the auction market.
The Patek Philippe Reference 1463R is estimated to fetch between £2, 99,894 and £4, 49,427. A watch of this reverence would generally have been sold in physical sale stores. But it is being sold at online-only auction as conducted by Christie’s.
Many auction houses conducted the in-person sale in Geneva and Hong-Kong in recent months. But with the increasing numbers of COVID-19 cases, New York imposed several restrictions.
Want to raise instant cash? Get a loan against your watch now.
Christie’s New York Rare Watches Online auction is featuring a unique Patek Philippe Reference 1463. The auction house elucidates this Patek watch as a creation from one of the golden periods of the brand.
However, two things made this Reference 1463 more unique and desirable.
Patek Philippe launched the Reference 1463 in the early 1940s. And it was continuously in production until the late 1960s. However, the watchmaker is known to produce only 21 examples of this chronograph each year.
Also, the iterations were made mostly in stainless steel or yellow gold. And among all, the rarest one is pink gold. Patek Philippe has made a total of only 145pieces.
More interestingly, only nearly 55 examples of the Reference 1463 are known to have been identified publicly to date, as reported by Christie’s.
Besides the Patek Philippe Reference 1463, another watch that will undoubtedly capture your attention is a Rolex Paul Newman Daytona Big Eye Panda Dial from 1971. Encased in steel, the timepiece is estimated to fetch between £2, 24,317 and £3, 73,942.
Christie’s Rare Watches New York Online auction is also featuring a Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph of 1976. This Patek Philippe Chronograph Reference 24997 in 18ct gold has an estimate from £2, 61,798 to £3, 36,570.
For those who are looking to get access to fast cash, get in touch with the trusted pawnbrokers in London at The Luxury Hut and pawn your watch.
Fill up our online form, providing all details of your luxury timepiece and get a free loan quote shortly. Or call on 0207 242 9160 to book an appointment and visit our office in Hatton Garden, London.
Getting a loan against watches from The Luxury Hut is straightforward and hassle-free. Whether it is online or via appointment, we will make the process quick, secure and convenient for you.
However, you may want to pawn a Rolex or get a loan against watch of any other elite brands. Nevertheless, you are likely to receive the highest amount of cash loan against it. No credit checks or obligation.
If you are happy with our loan offer, sign a pledge receipt and get paid instantly.
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