URGENT UPDATE: Pharrell Williams’ auction house, Joopiter, has just confirmed a staggering sale of over $1 million in rare and collectible watches, marking a significant moment for luxury watch enthusiasts. The auction, which took place in July 2023, featured an exclusive collection from iconic brands such as Rolex, Cartier, and Richard Mille, drawing the attention of wealthy collectors worldwide.
In a groundbreaking event for the watch market, Joopiter reported that five standout pieces accounted for a remarkable 70% of the total sales, totaling $756,250. This exceptional auction not only showcased the allure of luxury timepieces but also highlighted the continued demand for unique and rare items among collectors.
The auction featured a curated selection, allowing potential buyers to explore an eclectic mix of watches spanning generations. Robertino Altieri, CEO of WatchGuys.com, described the collection as containing “holy grails,” vintage pieces, and even some surprising finds from Japanese brands.
Among the highlights of the auction were five top-selling watches that captivated bidders:
1. **Rolex Daytona Ref. 16519 ‘Sodalite’**: Sold for $43,750, this unique model features a rare blue sodalite dial and diamond indexes. Altieri noted it sold on the “higher end of its expected value,” reaffirming Rolex’s dominance in the secondary market.
2. **Cartier Tank Cintrée Ref. WGTA0090 ‘NSO’**: Fetching $62,500, this one-of-a-kind special order watch boasts an extremely rare blue dial, making it a standout in the auction.
3. **Rolex Day-Date Ref. 18366 ‘Platinum Baguette Lapis Lazuli’**: This stunning timepiece sold for $125,000 and features a bezel set with 24 baguette-cut diamonds, showcasing Rolex’s exclusive offerings.
4. **Richard Mille RM030 PSG**: The limited-edition piece, associated with Paris Saint-Germain, went for $137,500. Altieri expressed surprise at the final price, noting that similar models typically list for around $250,000.
5. **Patek Philippe Celestial Ref. 6104R-001**: The auction’s most expensive item sold for $387,500, a figure seen as a low point for a Patek Philippe but still indicative of the brand’s exclusive market.
This auction reflects a growing trend in high-value collectibles, emphasizing the emotional connection collectors have with luxury watches. The allure of ownership and investment potential continues to drive demand, making events like this pivotal for both collectors and the auction house.
As the luxury watch market evolves, all eyes will be on Joopiter’s next auction and how it shapes the future of watch collecting. For now, the spotlight remains on Pharrell Williams and his successful venture into the luxury auction realm.
Stay tuned for more updates as this story develops.
