For collectors of rare and historic timepieces, the special auctions held by Hamburg-based auction house Cortrie are unmissable events. On 12 April, the time will come once again, as 339 exquisite and collectible pocket watches, wristwatches, and other fascinating timepieces go under the hammer in the house’s 267th auction.
Below, we highlight some of the standout pieces from the sale.
A modern classic such as the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona, featured here in an exceptionally rare version, is naturally an essential inclusion in such a distinguished selection. This particular example, purchased from Bucherer in 1993, is notable for two key reasons. Firstly, it is still equipped with Zenith’s high-end El Primero calibre, which Rolex used for the Daytona before developing its own chronograph movement. Secondly, it features the rare ‘inverted 6’ diamond dial, making it a true collector’s piece that no serious collection should be without.
Another exceptional highlight is a highly significant pocket watch from the former Glashütte manufacturer J. Assmann Deutsche Anker-Uhren-Fabrik (1852–1926). Housed in a high-quality savonnette case à-goutte (No. 16953), the numbers-matching movement boasts nine complications, including a perpetual calendar, moon phase and moon age display, minute repeater, and a chronograph with a 30-minute counter. This is one of the rarest Glashütte timepieces from around 1900.
An equally remarkable rarity among pocket watches is the ‘Montre Medaillon Excentric’ by Breguet, dating from 1815. Beyond its superb state of preservation, this watch stands out for its highly unusual and experimental lever escapement with a safety device, combined with a date complication.
Around 35 years earlier, a unique Grande Sonnerie carriage clock was crafted for the Chinese market. The maker was Timothy Williamson, one of London’s most successful watchmakers catering to the Far East. No other example of this particular design is known to exist. The clock is distinguished by its elaborate case, adorned with red gemstones and decorated throughout with an intricate enamelled tendril movement set against a blue background.
Cortrie describes this 1916 Vacheron & Constantin wristwatch as ‘sensationally rare’ in its catalogue. The early platinum case, set with 94 brilliant-cut diamonds and 12 cut onyx stones, appears designed for a woman’s wrist. However, its dimensions – approximately 38 x 21 mm – indicate that it was, in fact, a gentleman’s model. This makes it an absolute rarity for the period and style. While ladies’ watches of this type are already highly sought after by collectors, this men’s model is unquestionably a must-have.
Finally, we would like to draw attention to an exceptional table clock featured in the auction, possibly the work of the clockmaker Reimann, who was active in Nuremberg around 1580. All four sides of the gilded brass case are crafted from solid silver plates, intricately decorated with reliefs of outstanding artistic quality. These depict a dramatic episode from Roman mythology: the abduction of the Sabine women by the founders of Rome, who, lacking a female population, seized their neighbours’ wives. Renaissance table clocks with relief cases are extraordinarily rare and are typically found only in museum collections.
The auction will take place on 12 April from 16:30. Bids may be submitted in writing, by telephone, or online. Viewings are available by appointment at the auction house, Süderstraße 282, Hamburg, until 11 April.
Browse all Cortrie's lots here!
