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

Statement watches are nothing new, but the brands people seek out for communicating status have changed considerably. While Rolex used to be the go-to choice for flexing, we’re now seeing buyers take a more discerning approach as they become increasingly educated on brand hierarchy. 

One of the watchmakers enjoying mainstream success is Switzerland’s own ‘Holy Trinity’ member, Patek Philippe.  Considered by many as the world’s most revered watch brand, it’s widespread prevalence in recent years includes shout-outs in song lyrics and appearances on the wrists of celebrities. 

Despite this level of recognition, Patek Philippe’s more traditional aesthetic has proven to be a challenging proposition for people looking to turn heads. That is, until the launch of this not-so-subtle version of the brand’s hero watch - the Nautilus. The case and integrated bracelet have been embellished with an astounding 1,343 diamonds placed by Patek Philippe's expert team of gem setters. 

This mic-drop reference includes 182 baguette diamonds on the bezel and intermediary bracelet links in addition to 903 brilliant cut diamonds on the case and the remaining bracelet links. The pavé dial has also been adorned with 255 brilliant cut diamonds, with three baguettes marking 6, 9 and 12 o’clock. 

The ref. 5719 represents the ultimate iteration of a Patek icon, delivering extraordinary level of finishing and embellishment. This watch also elevates the Nautilus to a new pinnacle of luxury and reminds us all that Patek Philippe has a flamboyant side. Recently sold on Watch Collecting for £296,500

Of all the Speedmasters currently available (and there’s a lot!), one has been conspicuously absent from the line up - a white dialled version of the ‘Professional’. After a teaser on the wrist of actor Daniel Craig last November, Omega finally announced in May that it was being added to the line up. 

With the frequency of Omega releases, it’s easy to dismiss this as just another option within the broader Speedmaster range. However, this one’s different because it’s the steel Moonwatch. Omega has been careful to protect the sanctity of its hero product, and until now, if you wanted the OG you had a choice of one dial. 

Tweaking an icon is risky business and no doubt attracts the attention and discerning eyes of hardcore collectors. To Omega’s credit, this one’s been executed well and honours its hero model without losing any of its personality. On a technical level, a lot of consideration has been given to the finish, which features an application of lacquer, while the hour markers are applied and blackened with a PVD coating. Factor in a few touches of red and the result is a good looking and highly legible dial. 

We’re thankful to see this release as part of the regular line up, which feels rare in today’s world of limited editions and special productions. Recently sold on Watch Collecting for £6,600

This version of the Rolex Submariner might just be the ultimate example of a ‘if you know you know’ (IYKYK) watch. Appealing to the collector who likes to make a statement without attracting too much attention, the ‘Smurf’ is constructed of solid 18K white gold, with its vibrant blue dial and bezel the only hint to its precious metal construction. 

Apart from offering a refreshing alternative to the ubiquitous black dial we’re so used to seeing, this reference sets some interesting historical precedent as the first ever Submariner to be offered in full white gold. And while you can still buy a Sub in this lustrous metal, the latest version features a black dial, leaving the now discontinued ‘Smurf’ with its own unique character. Recently sold on Watch Collecting for £24,250