Sotheby's Sale of the Audemars Piguet 'Grosse Pièce' Shatters Records, Becomes By Far Most Expensive Audemars Piguet At $7,736,000
Sotheby's recently auctioned the Audemars Piguet 'Grosse Pièce' No. 16869, which sold for an astounding $7,736,000, breaking previous records for the brand. This pocket watch, regarded as one of the most historically significant pieces made by Audemars Piguet, far exceeded its conservative estimate of $500,000 to $1,000,000. The intense bidding was fueled by the watch's unique features, including its status as the most complicated pocket watch from the brand and the only one with a celestial complication and a tourbillon. The auction showcased other notable timepieces, with strong performances from Patek Philippe models as well. As bidding heated up, the 'Grosse Pièce' quickly surpassed $2 million, driven by multiple bidders, including a specialist at Sotheby's. The final bid showcased a competitive atmosphere, and the result marked a significant moment for Audemars Piguet collectors, as prices for pocket watches from the brand rarely reach such heights, positioning it as a watershed moment in the auction world.
