A Circa 1914 Cartier Paris 'Model A' Mystery Clock Owned by the Delion family

A Rare Patek Philippe Ref. 803, Yellow Gold 1895 Double Eagle Coin Watch with Concealed Dial Gifted to The First Prime Minister of Malaysia

Hong Kong – On 25 November, Bonhams will present Hong Kong Watches Sale – Echoes of Time: Rare Timepieces from the Pages of History, a live auction featuring a curated selection of rare and historically significant timepieces from multiple maisons. Among the highlights are Cartier Paris' iconic 'Model A' Mystery Clock—once hailed as a 'miracle of timekeeping'—and a rare Patek Philippe Ref. 803 yellow gold 1895 double eagle coin watch, both celebrated for their distinguished provenance.

Cartier Paris 'Model A' Mystery Clock – A Floating Marvel of Art Deco Innovation
Leading the sale is the Cartier Paris Pendule Mystérieuse 'Model A' Mystery Clock, a visually arresting early Art Deco masterpiece crafted circa 1914. Featuring a transparent rock-crystal case on a white agate base, the clock is adorned with gold, enamel, mother-of-pearl, onyx, and diamonds. Ingeniously, its manual-wind movement is concealed within the base, driving two crystal discs via hidden pinions to indicate the hours and minutes. The floating diamond-set hands appear to levitate, creating an enchanting illusion of movement without any visible mechanisms.

Boasting exceptional provenance, this clock was acquired in the 1920s by the Delion family, renowned Parisian hat makers, and became the centrepiece of their Boulevard Saint-Germain residence. It is now offered for sale for the first time, with an estimate of HK$2,000,000–4,000,000.

Patek Philippe Double Eagle Coin Watch – A Gift of Legacy and Diplomacy
Another standout is the Patek Philippe Ref. 803, a rare and unusual 35mm timepiece crafted from a United States $20 Double Eagle gold coin dated 1895. The watch features a concealed dial, adding a sense of mystery and sophistication. It was gifted to His Highness Tunku Abdul Rahman, the first Prime Minister of Malaysia, in celebration of his birthday in 1969. It is offered with an estimate of HK$100,000–200,000.

Sharon Chan, Bonhams' International Director, Watches, commented: "This season's sale is a celebration of horological heritage and artistry. We are pleased to present a selection of timepieces that not only showcase technical mastery and design innovation, but also carry remarkable stories of provenance. From the timeless elegance of Cartier Paris' 'Model A' Mystery Clock to the historical significance of the Patek Philippe coin watch and the debut of a rare Gérald Genta creation, each piece offers collectors a unique opportunity to own a chapter of watchmaking history. We warmly welcome collectors and enthusiasts from around the world to explore these extraordinary treasures."

Bonhams also presents a trio of exceptional Richard Mille timepieces —coveted icons of rarity and avant-garde design

• Richard Mille | Ref. RM011 AH WG, Circa 2011: A rare, limited edition of only 10 pieces worldwide; appearing publicly for the first time. PVD white gold adorned with black sapphire skeletonised annual calendar flyback chronograph. Estimate: HK$2,500,000–5,000,000

• Richard Mille | Lee Chong Wei - 'King of Badminton', Ref. RM011 AORG-TZP, Circa 2015: Limited to 30 pieces worldwide. A rare pink gold and brown ceramic semi-skeletonised annual calendar flyback chronograph. Estimate: HK$1,300,000–2,600,000

• Richard Mille | 'Rainbow', Ref. RM007 AH, Circa 2015: Small production. An 18k white gold tonneau-shaped wristwatch set with multicoloured sapphires. Estimate: HK$1,200,000–2,000,000

ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS:

Gérald Genta - A Hidden Masterpiece
Appearing at auction for the first time, the Gérald Genta Ref. G3026.7, circa 1995, is a sandblasted 18k white gold wristwatch featuring a rare trifecta of complications: perpetual calendar, moon phases, and minute repeater. Housed in an ultra-compact circular case, it showcases Genta's iconic four-subdial layout and his signature single-button minute repeater. The combination of these complications in such a small form is a testament to Genta's genius in micro-mechanical engineering and discreet luxury. Estimate: HK$300,000–600,000.

Golden Treasures & Neo-Vintage Mastery
With gold prices rising and interest in tangible assets increasing, gold watches have emerged as coveted wearable investments, combining intrinsic value, timeless design, and enduring collectability. Long regarded as symbols of prestige and permanence—from the mid century surge in solid gold dress watches to the bold, sculptural designs of the 1970s and 1980s—these neo vintage icons are now being rediscovered by a new generation of collectors drawn to their craftsmanship, rarity, and lasting allure.

• Rolex | King Midas, Ref. 4315, circa 1976: Inspired by King Midas of Greek mythology, who was granted the power to turn all he touched into gold, this limited edition left handed yellow gold bracelet watch stands as one of Rolex's purest expressions of 1970s design. Symbolising wealth and the era's fascination with opulence and innovation, it was famously worn by icons such as Elvis Presley. Estimate: HK$75,000 – 150,000.

• Piaget | Ref. 12336 C16, circa 1970: A substantial white gold bracelet watch that exemplifies Piaget's mastery of precious metal with gem-setting and dial artistry, featuring a pavé diamond-set case and a mesmerising hawk eye dial. A rare and elegant expression of 1970s glamour. Estimate: HK$140,000 – 280,000.

• Audemars Piguet | Cobra, Reference 14438BA, circa 1980: A rare and striking yellow gold bracelet watch featuring diamond-set indexes, a champagne dial, and a finely crafted mesh bracelet stamped 'GRG' for renowned designer Roland-Gilbert. A standout example of Audemars Piguet's avant-garde approach to luxury in the 1980s. Estimate: HK$200,000 – 400,000.