Phillips Will Host New York Watch Auction XV
The upcoming New York City auction will feature 170 rare timepieces, including several F.P. Journe models.
Updated on Oct. 13, 2026 in Jewelry
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Phillips has scheduled its New York Watch Auction XV for November 2026. The event will feature 170 lots with a total pre-sale estimate ranging from $24 million to $48 million.
Why it matters
The auction provides a significant platform for collectors to acquire rare horological timepieces vetted for provenance and condition. It meets the ongoing high-value demand for luxury items on the secondary market.
The auction includes a Patek Philippe 2499 second series with a starting bid of $3 million. Other notable pieces include a unique titanium Akrivia AK02 estimated at $500,000 to $1,000,000.
The players
Phillips
Phillips is a global auction house known for its focus on 20th and 21st-century art and design, including high-end horology.
Jerry Seinfeld
Jerry Seinfeld is a prominent comedian and actor who is acting as the consignor for the Rolex Daytona awarded to Vic Elford.
Vic Elford
Vic Elford was a professional racing driver who received a Rolex Daytona as a prize in 1968.
The details
Phillips staff members perform rigorous vetting of serial numbers, physical condition, and provenance to authenticate each of the 170 lots selected for the sale. The collection highlights rare pieces, such as a 1999 second-generation Tourbillon à Remontoir and a 2016 Tourbillon Souverain Régence Circulaire.
Timeline
1968: Vic Elford was awarded his Rolex Daytona.
1999: The second-generation Tourbillon à Remontoir was manufactured.
2000: The pre-Souscription Chronomètre à Résonance was manufactured.
2016: The Régence Circulaire limited edition was produced.
November 10, 2026: Auction results will be available live.
Culture Shift
The rise of specialized horological auctions reflects a broader shift toward treating rare luxury watches as significant alternative investment assets. This trend mirrors the increasing market sophistication and global interest in historical watchmaking provenance.
Prospective buyers should note the specific starting bid for the Patek Philippe 2499, which sits at $3 million. Collectors planning to attend should prepare for the high-end nature of these lots, as individual estimates for items like the titanium Akrivia range up to $1 million.
The takeaway
Collectors should focus on the vetting status of high-value lots to understand their potential investment value. Keeping an eye on pre-sale announcements can provide an advantage in identifying rare, late-added items.
What happens next
Phillips may announce one or two additional F.P. Journe examples prior to the sale date.
Further reading
For more information on the local luxury market, visit the New York City Jewelry section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Robb Report.
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