One F.P. Journe Sets $13.9 Million Record at Phillips New York Auction While Audemars Piguet Stumbles
The Phillips New York Watch Auction XIV on June 14, 2026 delivered a record‑breaking performance for F.P. Journe, whose pieces amassed nearly USD 29.2 million, highlighted by a Chronomètre à Résonance that sold for USD 13.9 million, a new U.S. auction record for a wristwatch. Other notable sales included a Patek Philippe “Eric Clapton” reference at USD 5.2 million, a F.P. Journe Tourbillon Souverain Anniversaire at USD 4.35 million, and a Patek Philippe Ref. 1518 fetching just under USD 4 million, each significantly surpassing their high estimates. In contrast, Audemars Piguet struggled, with thirteen lots generating only USD 2 million and lacking any competitive bidding, a downturn attributed to the lingering effects of the Swatch Royal Pop collaboration on brand equity. The auction also featured strong results for independent makers such as Voutilainen, whose Masterpiece Chronograph II and Vingt‑8 Inversé sold for over seven times their high estimates, underscoring the market’s appetite for rare, technically sophisticated pieces.
Buying Time Analysis: This story underscores the record‑breaking auction success of F.P. Journe watches, illustrating shifting collector demand and highlighting the contrasting decline of Audemars Piguet, making it a pivotal indicator of brand equity and market dynamics in the luxury watch sector.
