The Insanely Cool Watches Being Auctioned In The Collection of Sir Elton John: Goodbye Peachtree Road By Christie’s New York
This February, Christie’s will unveil an iconic collection from the legendary music maestro, Sir Elton John, at their Rockefeller Center location. This extraordinary series of sales, commencing with an evening auction on Wednesday, February 21, and comprising a total of eight sales, both live and online, will provide collectors with an unparalleled opportunity to acquire pieces from the rich history of this celebrated singer’s life.
Atlanta, a city that played a pivotal role in Elton John’s life, served as the backdrop for his condominium on Peachtree Road. His choice to reside in Atlanta was driven by deeply personal reasons, as the city offered him solace and support during his journey to sobriety in the early 1990s. Institutions like the Triangle Club became instrumental in his recovery, forging a lasting connection between Elton John and the city.
Tash Perrin, Deputy Chairman, Christie’s Americas, expressed the privilege of partnering with Sir Elton John and David Furnish to curate this exceptional auction. “The Collection of Sir Elton John: Goodbye Peachtree Road” not only showcases a diverse array of remarkable objects that encapsulate Elton’s unique life, work, and art but also provides a glimpse into the profound impact that the city of Atlanta had on him.
Over the years, Elton John meticulously assembled a unique collection of art, objects, and memorabilia for his Peachtree Road residence. This collection reflects his deep passion for photography, particularly ignited in the 1990s, as he adorned his Atlanta home with pieces from pioneering artists like Andy Warhol, Helmut Newton, Robert Mapplethorpe, Peter Beard, Herb Ritts, Richard Avedon, and more. The collection also features highly intimate artworks created personally for Elton John and David Furnish, including Damien Hirst’s “Your Song” and a portrait by Julian Schnabel. Noteworthy fashion pieces from Elton John’s iconic stage wardrobe, including a vintage Ivory and Gold Ensemble designed by Annie Reavey, hold historical significance. The sale also offers a glimpse into his eclectic tastes, with Versace upholstery, vintage Gianni Versace shirts, tableware, home décor, and artifacts from his global travels.
But, what we’re most interested in — of course — are the watches. Ahead, discover all of the timepieces that will be included in the auction.
Rolex ‘Leopard’ Daytona Model, Ref. 116598saco, Case No. K591067, Circa 2001
An exuberant and rare 18k gold, diamond, and orange sapphire automatic chronograph wristwatch with ‘Leopard’ dial estimated between $40,000-60,000.
Cartier, ‘Crash’ model, case no. A108446, no. 150/400, Circa 1991
A rare 18k gold limited edition asymmetrical wristwatch with ‘crash’ deployant clasp, which is a limited edition of 400 pieces, estimated at $70,000-100,000.
Cartier, Ref. 2495, Pasha, Circa 2000s
A very rare limited edition 18k white gold and diamond set automatic wristwatch with cloisonné dial estimated at $15,000-25,000.
Cartier, Tank Normale model, case no. 646’570, Circa 2000s
A possibly unique and opulent 18k white gold and baguette diamond-set rectangular wristwatch with baguette sapphire dial and diamond-set clasp, estimation set between $20,000-30,000.
Chopard, Elton John Aids Foundation piece unique model. Ref. 1279, case no. 1753500, Circa 2010s
An 18k white gold and diamond set automatic chronograph wristwatch with date, estimated between $10,000-15,000.
Audemars Piguet, 33 mm. Royal Oak model, case no. D40651, no. 107, Circa 1990s
An 18k white gold and sapphire set quartz wristwatch with a blue mother-of-pearl dial and date, estimated at $10,000-15,000.
Cartier, Tortue Monopoussoir model, ref. 2396g, case no. 18319ce, Circa 2000s
An 18k white gold and diamond set monopusher chronograph wristwatch, estimated between $15,000-25,000.
A.Lange & Söhne, Ref. 803.031, Saxonia, Circa 2000s
A rare 18k white gold and diamond set wristwatch with big date, estimated at $15,000-$25,000.
Hublot, Ref. 346.CD.1800.LR.1905, Big Bang “Tutti Frutti” Caviar, Circa 2010’s
Hublot Big Bang “Tutti Frutti” Caviar crafted in ceramic, DLC-coated titanium, and amethyst set automatic wristwatch, estimated at $8,000-$12,000.
Vacheron Constantin, Geneve, Les Historiques Jalousie Shutter model, Ref. 91002/000g-8, Case no. 674’942
An 18k white gold and diamond-set rectangular wristwatch with concealed dial, estimated between $10,000-$15,000.
Roger Dubuis, Ref. Se48 02 9, easy diver “Just For friends,” Circa 2000s
A limited edition stainless steel and 18k white gold tourbillon wristwatch, estimated at $10,000-$18,000.
Online sales will open for bids on February 9th and close on February 27th with Elton’s Versace, Honky Château, and The Jewel Box. The second day of online sales will conclude on February 28th with Love and Lust, Elton’s Superstars, and Out of the Closet. The public is invited to explore this remarkable collection at Christie’s 20 Rockefeller Plaza in New York City, with the exhibition open from February 9th through February 21st.