Amazing collection of diamond wrist-watches that once belonged to legendary violet eyes lady, Elizabeth Taylor, is currently a part of the year’s most anticipated auction. The exhibit ocuppies two floors of Christie’s Rockefeller Center headquarters in New York with Taylor’s clothing, accessories, and jewels, including 14 fine examples of Taylor’s watches. The highlights include pieces from both Vacheron Constantin and Patek Philippe, and many more.
Diamond and gold Lord Kalla bracelet watch, calibre 1052, signed Vacheron Constantin, case no. 572050, movement no. 7271670. Estimated at $300,000-$500,000.
Made in 1989, it has been inspired from the Vacheron Constantin Kalla line from wherein originated their gold and diamond “Kallista”. It’s part of their Metiers d’Art collection, covered in “flame-cut” diamonds from dial to strap and was given to her, like several other notable pieces in the collection, by Michael Jackson.
Diamond and gold ladies’ Nautilus, signed Patek Philippe, Genève, nos. 1526808, 2811556, 4700/4. Estimated at $4,000-$6,000.
Pave-diamond studded bezel watch is both elegant and sporty. Richard Burton gave her this gold Patek as a gift at near the start of their relationship on the set of Cleopatra, when they were both still married to other people.
Diamond and pink gold Serpenti wristwatch, Swiss assay marks, signed BVLGARI, nos. SP P 35 G and L 1031. Estimated at $8,000-$12,000.
Black opaline dial watch with the 18k pink gold bezel set with circular-cut diamonds and pink gem-set crown. It was gifted to Taylor whilst the shooting of Cleopatra by Bulgari with a special inscription, “To Dame Elizabeth, with gratitude, Paolo Bulgari, 2010”. It was actually one of the final gift pieces in a decades-long romance between the company and one of its most ardent fans.
Diamond and onyx wristwatch, signed Cartier, movement signed European Watch and Clock Co. Inc.; nos. 18688, 9969 and 756. Estimated at $4,000-$6,000.
The nickel-finished, 19-jewel lever movement comes with a bi-metallic compensation balance and is housed in a tonneau-shaped silver case. Made in 1925, this just 5 ¾ inches watch, mounted in platinum and gold, is a beautiful example of the Art Deco-style work that Taylor loved and of which she had many examples.
The full collection is on display at Christie’s December 3-12 for a ticket price of $30 plus sales tax. The auction however begins on December 13th, with a simultaneous online-only auction of 1,000-plus other items. [Christie’s]
