Roseberys’ Watches & Luxury Items auction on Wednesday 24 September demonstrated the continued strength of the market for decorative timepieces, achieving outstanding results for makers including Kutchinsky and Vacheron. As ever, pieces in good condition from iconic maisons such as Cartier and Chanel, proved especially sought after.


Lot 684: Cartier. An 18ct gold diamond set automatic bracelet watch, Ballon Bleu, Reference 3002
Price Realised: £9,446

The standout lot was the Cartier Ballon Bleu 18ct gold diamond set automatic bracelet watch by Cartier, which realised an impressive £9,446 - considerably surpassing its low estimate of £6,000. Distinguishable by its unique crown adorned with a blue sapphire and, in some models, a dial and case set with lustrous diamonds, the Ballon Bleu de Cartier has long captivated collectors with its blend of refinement and technical craft. 

Lot 679:  Cartier. An 18ct rose gold and diamond set wristwatch with box and receipt, Tonneau 
Price Realised: £9,184

Another Cartier highlight was a Tonneau 18ct rose gold and diamond set wristwatch which sold for £9,184, demonstrating the extent to which the model remains one of Cartier’s most collectible time pieces. A hallmark of Cartier’s legacy, this diamond-set and now-discontinued example offered buyers the rare synthesis of elegant form and subtle gem-setting. 

 

Lot 637: Concord. An 18ct white gold slim cased quartz bracelet watch, Delirium Mariner
Price Realised: £5,773


The Concord Delirium Mariner, with a sinuous 18ct white gold slim-cased quartz bracelet, proved especially appealing, realising a price of £5,773 against a £2,500 - £3,500 estimate. With a design language that feels both precise and forward-looking, Concord’s creations embody an understated modernism that continues to resonate with collectors.

"This auction affirmed the appetite for decorative watches, which I think speaks to the growing number of women collectors in today's market," said  Kate Lacey, Senior Watches Consultant at Roseberys, reflecting on the auction.

The luxury items section of the auction was anchored by strong results in Hermès and Chanel handbags, which attracted spirited global bidding.

Lot 839: Hermès.A brand new Bolide 25, of Etoupe Epsom leather with palladium hardware, stamped U (2022).
Price Realised: £5,248


An Hermès Bolide 25 realised a price of £5,248. Crafted using Etoupe Epsom leather with palladium hardware, the Bolide isn't as widely circulated as other Hermès classics and therefore certain models and conditions will achieve resale prices above retail. Consequently, in recent years more collectors are acquiring the Bolide not just as an everyday bag, but as a long-term investment.

Lot 779: Chanel by Karl Lagerfeld, A 2002 Limited Edition Mademoiselle Jacket Shoulder Bag
Price Realised: £2,099


A final highlight of the auction was the Chanel Limited Edition Mademoiselle Jacket Shoulder Bag by Chanel, which sold for £2,099. A sophisticated, limited-edition design that pays homage to Chanel’s most iconic garment. The design debuted as part of Chanel’s early 2000s seasonal accessories under Karl Lagerfeld’s creative direction, yet it was not shown on the runway, making it a true retail-exclusive collectible.