In 2023 Monaco Legend Group (MLG) ascended to the fourth position in the global watch auction rankings by Every Watch, a notable achievement that reflects the strategic focus and high-quality offerings of the company. Unlike its larger competitors, Christie’s, Phillips, and Sotheby’s, MLG has taken a unique approach by conducting only two physical auctions per year, with a total of 539 lots, resulting in an impressive average sales price per lot of $95,752—the second highest in the industry. 

With an outstanding 2024 so far, including a hugely successful spring Exclusive Timepieces sale, a new online-only sale in July and the appointment of veteran watch dealer and expert Corrado Materelli as Deputy Chairman of the watch department, the future is bright!

As the house prepares for its upcoming October Exclusive Timepieces sale at Le Meridien Beach Plaza Hotel on October 19th and 20th, anticipation is high for what promises to be a highlight event in the world of luxury watch auctions.

The October sale will feature a curated selection of rare and highly sought-after watches, and three standout lots have already been unveiled.

A Unique Piece of Horological History

The Patek Philippe reference 2438/1R is arguably one of the rarest perpetual calendar wristwatches ever made. Introduced in 1952, the reference 2438/1 was one of the first waterproof perpetual calendars with a sweep center-seconds. Only 65 examples of reference 2438/1 were ever made, making it incredibly rare and of these, only 15 were produced in pink gold, with the whereabouts of just seven known currently.

The specific lot being presented by Monaco Legend Group is a first-series pink gold 2438/1R with oversized ‘Arabic’ numeral indexes, making it a unique example among all discovered 2438/1 models. Accompanied by a comprehensive set of documents, including receipts and letters from Patek Philippe, this watch was originally commissioned in 1955 by Otto Gerhard Friedrich Bovensiepen, a prominent German businessman. The watch has been meticulously preserved through the years, with service records spanning from the 1980s to 2001. Its rarity, unique features, and storied provenance make it an extraordinary piece that will undoubtedly draw significant attention from collectors at the upcoming auction.

The Pinnacle of Collectibility

Among the highlights of MLG’s October sale is a rare steel Rolex Day-Date, a timepiece that is highly coveted among collectors. This model is considered the rarest Day-Date ever to appear on the market, adding a unique dimension to any high-level collection. Featured in the book “100 Fabulous Rolex Watches,” this specific watch comes from the esteemed collection of John Goldberger and is being presented at auction for the first time. The watch boasts an original, unrestored black dial that has over the years turned a wonderful brown ‘tropical’ hue, a feature that significantly enhances its appeal and rarity. Its inclusion in the sale underscores MLG’s reputation for offering only the most exceptional and desirable timepieces.

An Icon of Motorsports and Watchmaking

Another exceptional lot is the Rolex Daytona, reference 6241, often referred to as the “John Player Special” or “JPS”. This model, dating to 1969, stands out for its luxurious black and gold design, reminiscent of the iconic John Player Special livery from the golden era of motorsports. The watch is preserved in its original, untouched condition, featuring a 14kt yellow gold case and a striking black and gold dial. Appearing at auction for the first time, this piece is expected to receive a lot of attention from collectors around the world. The “JPS” Daytona is not only a stunning example of a sports chronograph but also a cultural and sporting artifact that embodies the spirit of racing and luxury watchmaking.

The auction will take place on October 19th and 20th at the Le Meridien Beach Plaza Hotel in Monaco. Don’t miss the chance to witness these rare and prestigious timepieces go under the hammer at what promises to be a landmark sale for Monaco Legend Group. Mark your calendars for this unmissable occasion in the world of high-end watch collecting.