On 14 November, Dallas Auction Gallery is set to present its Winter Premier Sale, featuring unique cultural and historical treasures. Collectors and enthusiasts will have the opportunity to bid on items with extraordinary pasts, including King Edward VII’s grand piano, a Rolex Submariner worn by legendary diver and documentarian Philippe Cousteau, and a rare collection of photographs from The Beatles’ Mad Day: Summer of ‘68 by royal photographer Tom Murray.
Royal Legacy: King Edward VII’s Grand Piano
Headlining the auction is a historic Broadwood Grand Piano, crafted in 1879 by the famed John Broadwood & Sons Ltd. The piano was personally selected by Sir Charles Hallé, the famous pianist and conductor, for His Royal Highness Edward, Prince of Wales, in 1880, and graced the halls of Buckingham Palace upon Edward’s ascension to the throne in 1901. Its elegant presence is complemented by its remarkable provenance, as it later returned to Marlborough House for the Queen Mother, Her Majesty Queen Alexandra, where it became her favourite instrument. This exquisite piece is estimated to fetch between $30,000 and $40,000, presenting a unique opportunity to own a work with both royal and musical heritage.
Summer of '68: The Beatles Captured in an Unforgettable Moment
Another marquee item is the rare collection of negatives from what has become known as 'The Mad Day: Summer of ‘68', capturing The Beatles at the height of their legendary career. Organized by Paul McCartney and shot by Tom Murray on a July day in London, these photos offer a colorful, candid look at the band as they worked on their White Album. The collection, which includes 23 negatives, along with the IP rights for all images and the camera used to take them, is a historical document that offers an exclusive look into one of music’s most iconic eras. Appraised at over $1.3 million a decade ago, these images have been featured in gallery shows throughout Europe, Japan, and the United States.
Diver’s Icon: Philippe Cousteau’s Rolex Submariner
For those drawn to the mysteries of the ocean, Philippe Cousteau’s 1969 Rolex Submariner brings a piece of underwater history to the surface. Philippe Cousteau, a celebrated filmmaker, diver, and environmentalist, carried on the legacy of his father, Jacques Cousteau, a renowned French oceanographer and filmmaker who also worked with Rolex to develop the first waterproof diver's watches. This model features a unique pink hue—a result of early printing techniques—and is estimated to be valued between $50,000 and $75,000.
"These items not only represent significant cultural milestones but are also truly one-of-a-kind treasures that collectors won't want to miss," said Reyne Hirsch, co-owner of Dallas Auction Gallery.
The 14 November auction will take place at Dallas Auction Gallery, located at 2223 Monitor St. in Dallas, Texas, at at 6 PM CST (7 PM ET). Bidding is available in person and online. Collectors are encouraged to register early for a chance to participate in the event.
