In collaboration with Kaplans Auktioner
7 favourites from Kaplans Important Watches on the 15th of November
On 15 November it is time for the autumn's Important Watches at Kaplans. The auction offers a number of interesting lots, and we at Eqotime have, in cooperation with Kaplans Auktioner, picked out seven favourites to take a closer look at.
Text: The editorial team
Image: Aleksandar Mladenovic
On the 15th of November it is time for the autumn's Important Watches at Kaplans. The auction offers a number of interesting objects, and we at Eqotime have, in collaboration with Kaplans Auktioner selected seven favourites to take a closer look at. It is a really good mix of vintage watches in different price ranges that are interesting in different ways.
The viewing starts on 12 November at 10 and the auction is hammered on the 15th of November at 13 at Kaplans on Biblioteksgatan 5, Stockholm and in total the catalogue contains 121 objects.
Auction number 110 – Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Offshore Ref. 25770ST
Cal. 2226/2840 | ca. 2000
The Royal Oak Offshore has always been the slightly more muscular cousin in the AP family – and here we have a classic example from the year 2000 with reference 25770ST.OO.A001KE.01. With its 42 mm steel case, automatic chronograph movement (Cal. 2226/2840) and iconic design it is a model that puts a real presence on the wrist without losing the elegance.
The black dial with the “Méga Tapisserie” pattern, sapphire crystal and integrated leather strap with AP's folding clasp make this a bullseye for anyone who wants to combine sportiness and luxury. Of course both the certificate (dated August 2000), box and outer box are included – always a plus for the collector value.
A classic Offshore in its right element – rock hard but sophisticated.
Auction number 31 – Longines Flyback Chronograph “Nonius” Ref. 8225-1
Cal. 538 (30CH) | ca. 1968
This is a real rarity from Longines – a flyback chronograph with a so-called “Nonius” scale, developed for extra precise timing. The model, reference 8225-1, is from around 1968 and measures a full 43 mm – an impressive size, especially considering the time when it was launched.
Under the hood sits Longines' own Caliber 538, based on the acclaimed 30CH movement, complete with flyback function. The addition of “T Swiss Made T” on the dial signals the use of tritium as luminous material, a detail typical of the period.
Steel case, mineral crystal, hand-wound movement and matching leather strap. A technically sophisticated model with a clear professional background, which also stands out considerably on the wrist. A must for chronograph fans with a taste for the unusual.
Auction number 30 – Omega Chronograph “Fab. Suisse” Ref. CK 2451
Cal. 321 | ca. 1950
A classic chronograph with that little extra. This Omega Chronograph from around 1950 carries the reference CK 2451 and is driven by the legendary Caliber 321 – a movement that was also used in early Speedmasters. That makes the model extra interesting for collectors looking for pre-Speedy chronographs with historical weight.
The steel case measures 35 mm, a perfect size for its time – and perhaps also today for anyone who appreciates vintage in its most wearable form. The marking “Fab. Suisse” on the dial indicates that it was made for the French market, a small detail that raises the nerd factor.
Classic plexiglass, leather strap and original steel buckle round off a watch that is both clean in style, technically interesting and collectible.
Auction number 28 – Omega Marine Ref. CK 679 – The world's first diving watch
Cal. 19,4 T2 | ca. 1937
A historic milestone in the development of the diving watch. The Omega Marine was launched in 1932 and is counted as the world's first commercial diving watch – here in a version from around 1937 with reference CK 679. The rectangular case in stainless steel (Staybrite) measures 23 x 34 mm and bears traces of function rather than flair, with its innovative construction that made it water resistant long before that became standard.
Inside sits Omega's hand-wound calibre 19,4 T2, and the model is worn on a classic leather strap. A collector's object with documented significance for the history of the diving watch – and a must for anyone looking for a real talking point for the collection.
Auction number 17 – Gübelin Lucerne – Ladies' watch with lid in gold and precious stones
Cal. 354 (Cyma) | ca. 1950
A true jewel from the 1950s signed by the Swiss Gübelin. This elegant ladies' model in 18K gold has a characteristic shape with a lid over the dial – a detail that combines function and decadent jewellery design. The case is generously decorated with 6 brilliants (TW/SI, ca 0,60 ctv) as well as 13 blue sapphires that frame the watch in an exquisite way.
Inside ticks a hand-wound shaped movement, Cal. 354 from Cyma, and the whole creation sits on an integrated gold bracelet with a total weight of 68,1 grams. The original box from Gübelin is also included – a detail that further strengthens the historical value.
A watch where haute joaillerie meets Swiss watchmaking art in the best possible harmony.
Auction number 3 – Cartier Tank Normale “Paris Dial”
Ref. Cal 78-1 | ca. 1980
A classic with a small twist. Here we have a Cartier Tank Normale from around 1980 with the sought-after “Paris” signature at 6 o'clock – a detail that makes collectors' hearts beat a little faster. The case is square (22,5 x 22,5 mm, 30 mm with the lugs), made in 18K yellow gold and matched with a folding clasp in the same precious metal. Inside ticks the hand-wound movement Cal. 78-1 (based on the Piguet 21), and the watch is worn on a classic leather strap.
An incredibly elegant model that represents Cartier's craftsmanship from an era where details like the “Paris Dial” say much more than you might think at first glance. A timeless piece for the connoisseur.
Auction number 109 – Patek Philippe Golden Ellipse Ref. 3848/8
Cal. 215 | ca. 1988
A discreet icon in true Patek spirit. The Golden Ellipse with reference 3848/8 is a model that clearly reflects the brand's design philosophy – where harmony, proportions and refined elegance are at the centre. The oval case in 18K gold measures 27 x 32 mm and is matched with an integrated gold bracelet that gives a coherent and timeless impression.
Inside ticks the hand-wound Caliber 215 – a movement that breathes Patek's classic craftsmanship. The model comes with a certificate dated October 1988 as well as both box (slightly damaged) and outer box. The total weight of 79,5 grams testifies to a proper piece of precious metal.
The Golden Ellipse is not the loud type, but for the connoisseur it speaks its clear language. An obvious piece for you who appreciate the subtle and sophisticated.
We look forward to the auction on the 15th of November starting at 13 o'clock and the catalogue offers quite a few fine and interesting watches beyond our 5 favourites.
For those of you who are going to bid we wish you good luck and a big thank you to Kaplans for yet another pleasant collaboration.
Read more at Kaplans Auktioner
