Giuseppe Marasco Master artisan-craftsman, independent watchmaker, ‘primus inter pares’: Philippe Dufour celebrated his 75th birthday on June 3rd, 2023. This unique model, commissioned by an important collector, is dated June 3rd 2021, when Dufour turned 73. It will be auctioned by Christie’s Geneva at a Live Sale on 6 November – estimated CHF600,000-1,200,000.
Geneva, 8 June 2023 – It is a rare event when a timepiece by Philippe Dufour is brought to market. He produces so few that to discerning collectors the possibility of fulfilling a long-held dream is a unique moment. Coinciding with the celebrations for Philippe Dufour’s 75th birthday with his family and friends from all over the world last week, Christie’s Geneva has the honour of presenting a striking, unique Simplicity watch with the certificate dated of June 3rd, 2021 (Philippe Dufour’s 73rd birthday).
The personification of independence and audacity, recognised with the most prestigious prizes in watchmaking, Philippe Dufour is the living Master of Haute Horlogerie. He was the first to put a Grande and Petite Sonnerie in a wristwatch, and the first to do the same with a double-balance wheel. Yet it is his Simplicity that would elevate him to primus inter pares, first among peers.
“This is true simplicity,” said the master craftsman-watchmaker Philippe Dufour when handing over the precious timepiece to his client. With a stunning and extremely attractive royal blue dial and singular hour markers along with an inimitable rendering Côtes de Genève, this is the very first Philippe Dufour wristwatch with a steel case offered publicly. Its size, an unprecedented 38mm sets it apart of the other models made in 34 and 37mm cases. What makes this timepiece even more special, following the wishes of the client there is no small second hand. The combination of all these elements makes this watch truly unparalleled.
