The Five Most Expensive Patek Philippe Watches Sold at Auction in 2024

In 2024, Sotheby’s global team of Patek Philippe specialists once again presented an extraordinary selection of timepieces at auction. Standout sales included the Grandmaster Chime Reference 6300G, which achieved an impressive $5.4 million, and several rare examples from the legendary Reference 2499 series. Here’s a recap of the top five most expensive Patek Philippe watches sold by Sotheby’s in 2024.

1. Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime Reference 6300G Circa 2021, 5,400,000 USD

The Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime Reference 6300G was sold for 5,400,000 USD in June 2024. A timepiece of extraordinary complexity, the above piece is the pinnacle of Patek Philippe’s horological mastery. Introduced in 2016, this model marked the brand's first grande sonnerie watch in its permanent collection. Featuring twenty complications and including five chiming modes and a reversible case, the Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime is a testament to the brand's innovative prowess.

This particular watch was notably owned by legendary actor Sylvester Stallone. Accompanied by a grand presentation box, literature, and numerous accessories, this watch was a comprehensive collector’s item. Stallone’s ownership further solidified its place as a unique and highly desirable piece, making it the top-selling Patek Philippe watch in this auction season.

2. Patek Philippe Reference 1563 Circa 1947, 3,360,000 CHF

Patek Philippe Watch — Patek Philippe Reference 1563

The Patek Philippe Reference 1563 was sold for 1,143,000 CHF in November 2024. It was one of only three known examples and combined the case design of the 1463 chronograph with the movement of the 1436 split-seconds chronograph. Its most unique feature was the dial, which had Breguet numerals and a track in hard enamel, along with luminous material on the numerals and hands. Over time, this luminous material had aged to a warm brown, giving the watch a beautiful vintage look.

The case was in excellent condition, with sharp lugs, clear hallmarks, and an engraving—"L. Estée" and "S.G.H."—that added a bit of mystery to its history. At 35mm in size, it was perfectly balanced for both elegance and practicality. This watch was not only a rare collector’s piece but made this a highly sought-after watch.

3. Patek Philippe Reference 2499 Pink Gold, 1st Series Circa 1950, 3,120,000 CFH

The Patek Philippe First Series Reference 2499 was sold for 3,120,000 CHF in November 2024. Originally produced in 1950, the pink gold watch was one of only three known examples with a Wenger case, rather than the more common Vichet. This watch was the only one publicly available, making it exceptionally rare—even the Patek Philippe Museum did not have one. The Wenger case was slightly larger and featured sculptural lugs, giving it a distinct and refined appearance.

First sold in 2012 by the family of its original owner, the watch had been preserved in outstanding condition. The case had sharp hallmarks, clear numbers, and well-defined proportions, while the dial retained its original off-white patina and perfectly preserved enamel tracks. As part of the iconic 2499 lineage, this watch was more than a timepiece—it was a rare opportunity to own a piece of watchmaking history and one of the most important perpetual calendar chronographs ever made.

4. Patek Philippe Reference 2499, 2nd Series Circa 1954, 2,400,000 CFH

The Patek Philippe Second Series Flat Dial Reference 2499 was sold for 2,400,000 CHD in November 2024. Introduced in 1950 as the successor to the renowned Reference 1518, the 2499 was the only perpetual calendar chronograph available for nearly three decades. This second-series example stood out for its round pushers, tachymeter scales, and its exceptionally rare "flat dial," one of only two known examples.

The watch’s preservation was remarkable, with a well-maintained case featuring strong proportions, crisp lugs, and visible hallmarks. The original flat dial, with hard enamel scales, remained in outstanding condition. Accompanied by a Gobbi presentation case and likely paired with a bracelet from the famed Italian retailer, this Reference 2499 was a true collector’s masterpiece, celebrated for its rarity and timeless design.

5. Patek Philippe Reference 2499, 3rd Series Circa 1954, 2,280,000 CHD

The Patek Philippe Third Series Reference 2499, circa 1954, was sold for 2,280,000 CHF in November 2024. Produced between 1950 and 1985, the Reference 2499 is regarded as one of Patek Philippe's most iconic wristwatches. With only 349 examples made across four decades, it is a symbol of timeless elegance and technical mastery. This particular third-series model, crafted in yellow gold, stands out as the only known example fitted with a black lacquer dial featuring applied gold Breguet numerals.

The black dial, commissioned by a prominent collector in the 1980s, was custom-made by the famed Stern Frères. Its design features a gold base, oxidized and lacquered black, with scales and inscriptions transferred in beige-gold tones using 24k gold powder. The dial was sealed with Zapon lacquer, preserving its glossy finish and intricate details. Combined with its exceptional condition and unique configuration, this Reference 2499 is one of the most extraordinary examples of this legendary model.

The Patek Philippe watches sold at Sotheby’s in 2024 represent some of the most significant achievements in horology. These timepieces, with their complex movements, rich histories, and unique designs, continue to captivate collectors worldwide. The combination of rarity, provenance, and craftsmanship ensures that these watches will remain coveted pieces for years to come.

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At Sotheby’s our global network of Patek Philippe specialists regularly bring a range of extraordinary Patek examples to market, combined with handpicked watches in exceptional condition available through our Buy-Now offering. Sotheby's is on hand to support as a trusted partner for selling or purchasing a Patek Philippe watch.