One-of-a-Kind Watches From Michel Parmigiani and U.S. Navy Available at Bonhams Skinner

In the 1970s, the advent of quartz watches upended the Swiss watchmaking industry. Up until that point, intricate mechanical watches reigned supreme. Some designers made the switch to the new, simple, and cheaper technology. Swiss-trained horologist Michel Parmigiani instead chose to preserve the old style through meticulous restoration projects. Among the key lots of Bonhams Skinner’s upcoming sale is a unique open-face watch from Michel Parmigiani. This piece features an 18-karat pink gold case, blue translucent fire enamel details, and an original fitted maple box. It dates back to 1999, shortly after Parmigiani founded Parmigiani Fleurier, a luxury brand dedicated to preserving classic Swiss watchmaking techniques. 

Lot 29, Michel Parmigiani "Meccanica I" Unique Object Reference U1140 No. 2021 Open-face Watch. Estimate $40,000-$60,000

The August auction of Clocks, Watches, & Scientific Instruments will also include a Tornek-Rayville TR-900 dive watch from circa 1964. This rare example was commissioned for the U.S. Navy Underwater Demolition Teams (also known as “frogmen”), units that would eventually evolve to become Navy SEALs. This watch’s features include a moisture indicator and a screw-back engraved with military markings. A selection of Rolex and Patek Philippe wristwatches is available, as well as 19th-century shelf clocks, French mantel clocks, and American tall clocks. To view the complete catalogs of this and other online auctions, on Bidsquare.