Bonhams is set to offer a remarkable A-Z watch collection dubbed ‘The Alphabet of Time’ across sales in 2016.
The timepieces originate from the world’s largest private watch collection, and span manufacturers from Arnold & Son through to Zenith.
“We’ve secured the world’s largest watch collection for auction, with many rare and beautiful pieces," said Jonathan Darracott, Bonhams Global Head of Watches.
“The Alphabet of Time is part of the collection of a European Nobleman, one man’s 2,000 piece collection, believed to be the largest ever offered at auction. Looking through this assortment of watches, we realised that due to its sheer size and diversity, we were able to assemble the ‘A to Z’ of watch brands.
"The A-Z of watch brands is a delightful discovery, and the perfect way to highlight just how diverse it really is.”
The complete Alphabet of Time includes watches by Arnold & Son, Breitling, Cartier, Daniel Roth, Edox, Franck Muller, Romain Gauthier, Saint Honoré, IWC, Jaeger-LeCoultre, Korloff, A. Lange & Söhne, Mark Brogsitter, Nienaber Bünde, Omega, Patek Philippe, Quinn, Rolex, Sarcar, Tag Heuer, Urban Jürgensen & Sønner, Voutilainen, J. & T. Windmills, Xemex, York and Zenith.
The first group from the collection will be sold in London as part of the Fine Watch sale on June 22. Leading the selection is a rare Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph, reference 5020R, known as the ‘T.V’ watch due to its square design. As one of just 25 examples ever produced in Rose Gold, the watch is expected to sell for £20,000-£30,000 ($28,875-$43,310).
Further notable entries from the ‘alphabet’ will include an Arnold & Son double balance sidereal time, reference 1DGAP.W01A, estimated at £8,000-£10,000 ($11,550-$14,435); a Romain Gauthier Prestige HM, also estimated at £8,000-£10,000; a Saint Honoré finished in rose gold and titanium, estimated at £10,000-£20,000 ($14,435-$28,875); and a classic Rolex Daytona,, reference 116528, estimated at £8,000-£12,000 ($11,550-$17,325).
More watches from the collection will be offered at Bonhams in London on November 22.
