Vintage Meets Contemporary in Geneva's Fine Watches Sale

W ith an extraordinary range of examples from across the horological spectrum, Sotheby's Fine Watches sale in Geneva offers timepieces perfect for both seasoned collectors and those looking to start their collection.

Here, our experts select highlights from a Cartier classic to a showstopping Franck Muller.

Franck Muller Ref. QPE DF

This watch comes straight from Franck Muller’s golden age. It’s a lot of fun and maintains a classical aesthetic in both its size and shape. The watch is wonderfully complicated with a perpetual calendar and chronograph. What is more, the chronometer is elaborated upon with the inclusion of a tachymeter, pulsometer and telemeter scale, a feature that is entirely hidden from view when the watch is being worn. This watch is screaming to be taken off, played with and talked about.

Cartier Tank Americaine Flying Tourbillon

In recent years, Cartier has gone from strength to strength. This is unsurprising given the history of the brand and the strength of its foundations. Cartier’s designs are timeless, based on fundamental forms that are then refined, such as this watch, the Tank Americaine. It is a beautifully classical shape, and one that has been manipulated to curve and fit to the wrist of the wearer. It is one of Cartier’s best known and most distinctive designs, one which has certainly stood the test of time. This particular example modernises the Americaine, the dial is contemporary and is gifted a depth through its semi-skeletonised numerals and minute track. Further to this of course is the addition of the tourbillon at six o'clock, an impressive and visually compelling feature that concretes the models place and relevance in the 21st Century.

Omega 'Anniversary Series' Speedmaster, Ref. 311.32.40.30.01.001

This Omega is an homage to the incredibly collectable early Speedmasters. It is one of the world's most recognisable chronograph wristwatches with a history that might make even the Rolex Daytona pale in comparison. Testament to its longevity and timelessness, the Speedmaster has remained virtually unchanged since its inception. This example lives up to and celebrates the history of this incredible watch. It is presented in virtually unused condition and is accompanied by its full suite of accessories. A true piece of horological history.

Urban Jürgensen Ref. 1140 C

This Urban Jurgensen is a superb mix of both the classical and contemporary. Aesthetically it plays tribute to historical timepieces, a silvered guilloche dial, Roman Numerals, blued steel hands etc. However, it maintains a very modern look, the hour hand is playful and extravagant and the case, with its electric lugs and 40mm diameter, is bold and very eye catching. The movement too, which can be viewed through the display back is traditional but beautifully finished.

Cyma Pink Gold Wristwatch

This little Cyma from circa 1920 absolutely oozes Art Deco charm. Presented in fantastic condition the watch, cased in pink gold and with its tonneau form, gives huge presence on the wrist. The dial is really something to behold with the Art Deco eccentric numerals and blue steel cathedral hands. A perfect starter watch and one that perfectly encapsulates the best of the time in which it was produced.