A Rolex ‘Paul Newman’ Daytona, a Van Cleef & Arpels Art Deco bracelet and a monumental sculpture by Manolo Valdés led the charge during Artcurial’s summer auctions in Monaco, which collectively brought in €9.38 million across six sales.
Held from 7th to 9th July at the Hôtel Hermitage in Monte-Carlo, the Monaco Auction Week confirmed the Principality’s standing as a hub for collectors of fine art, haute horlogerie, and rare jewels. Organised by French auction house Artcurial, the week-long event brought together connoisseurs from around the world, achieving a combined total of €9,383,767 (USD $10,994,316) including fees.
Vintage Rolex and Patek Philippe watches take centre stage
In the horology category, a highly sought-after Rolex Cosmograph Daytona ‘Paul Newman’ model from circa 1967 fetched €249,280, well within its €200,000–€400,000 estimate. It was sold to a French client. Meanwhile, a Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph (Ref. 3970, circa 2000) realised €154,816, acquired by a European collector. The overall watch sale brought in over €1.19 million.
Other standout wristwatches included a Patek Philippe Nautilus Jumbo, which sold for €111,520, and an Audemars Piguet Edward Piguet Minute Repeater that was snapped up by an American collector for €44,608.
Sculptures shine in the open air
One of the most successful categories of the week was contemporary sculpture, which totalled more than €4 million. Manolo Valdés’ Ariela – a striking aluminium work from 2011 – sold for €1,104,400, the highest price achieved during the week. Claude Lalanne’s Caroline enceinte (1969–1979) followed closely at €734,720, while Murano Head by Valdés attracted €458,440. The sculptures were exhibited in the gardens of Monaco, providing a striking backdrop for these commanding works.
High jewellery dazzles collectors
The jewellery segment also attracted vigorous bidding, totalling €3.53 million. A platinum Van Cleef & Arpels Art Deco bracelet set with emeralds and diamonds was the highlight, achieving €249,280. A 22.97 carat diamond solitaire reached €196,800, and a Mauboussin platinum ring with a 6.10 carat centre stone garnered €118,080.
Hermès bags, a frequent crowd-pleaser, also drew interest, with a Kelly Retourné 25 Colormatic from 2022 selling for €17,712, while various Birkin models from 2024 earned prices between €12,000 and €15,000.
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Photo source: Artcurial