Weekly Wind Down | Sales Highlights including watches from Patek Philippe and Rolex

In many respects, the reference 5968 feels like a natural progression for the Aquanaut line. Up until 2019, this dedicated sports watch did not have a chronograph option, and the introduction of this complication looks right at home here. 

Introduced in white gold and steel, this reference is presented in the latter which perfectly suits the Aquanaut's personality. The splashes of orange on the chronograph hands and minute track deliver an appealing pop of colour. Despite these updates and increased case size, the 5968 is still instantly recognisable as it carries over the signature design cues from the 1997 original, including the geosphere dial and matching composite rubber strap. 

While the Aquanaut was inspired by the brand’s iconic Nautilus, its youthful design and sporty characteristics have helped it to become a legend in its own right Recently sold on Watch Collecting for £79,000

Whether you like it or not, watch nicknames are part of this hobby and they’re here to stay.    Straddling the line between amusing and slightly corny, these monikers likely originate from the dark depths of watch forums, bubbling to the surface and attaching themselves to popular models. While beverages and superheroes seem to feature prominently, sometimes it’s as simple as a celebrity name. 

During an episode of Hodinkee’s Talking Hands in 2019, the famous musician John Mayer spoke fondly about a number of Daytonas, including this ref. 116508. Relatively underappreciated at the time, this seal of approval caused some hysteria and a new name was born -‘The John Mayer’

Celebrity backing aside, this is a great execution of the Crown’s iconic sports watch. It’s certainly not subtle, but being in yellow gold with a sunburst green dial, it offers a really appealing look in a very Rolex kind of way. Luxurious versions of utilitarian watches is where Rolex does its best work. Recently sold on Watch Collecting for £52,000

Here we have another gold Rolex, but there’s definitely no endorsements from famous musicians here. The Cellini line has always struggled to win the hearts of collectors, and when you consider it’s a dressy option from a brand that sells robust waterproof watches, it kind of makes sense. After a 50+ year history, the Cellini is no longer and Rolex is attempting to reinvigorate its dress watch offering with a new ‘1908’ collection. 

Will the Cellini’s absence change the way collectors feel about it? Considering we’re in the midst of a dress watch revival, this could be the neglected line’s moment to shine! While you ponder that slightly unlikely scenario, let me introduce you to a watch that fits squarely into bargain-of-the-century territory. 

The Cellini ref. 5330 is a contrarian at heart thanks to an ultra-thin case and manual-wind movement. Its hinged lugs are also highly unusual but offer a charming point of difference from other Rolexes and no doubt add to its ergonomic appeal. This particular version benefits from an 18K white gold case and mother-of-pearl dial, all for £3,250. As a value proposition, this one’s hard to beat. Long live the Cellini! Recently sold on Watch Collecting for £3,250