Antiquorum May 2025 Auction

Antiquorum unveils a spectacular May 2025 Auction showcasing an exceptional Patek Philippe with Suzanne’s Rohr enamel, an historic collection from André Beyner and a Rolex Paul Newman, the ultimate collector’s icon.

Geneva, Switzerland – 24.02.2025 – Antiquorum is honored to announce an extraordinary auction scheduled for May 2025, featuring the prestigious collection of the late André Beyner (1927–2023), a visionary pioneer in Swiss watchmaking. This exclusive event will also feature rare and significant timepieces, including a unique Patek Philippe pocket watch with enamel by Suzanne Rohr and a highly sought-after Rolex Cosmograph Daytona "Paul Newman.“

Auction details – The auction will take place in Geneva on May 10th & 11th 2025 at the Ritz Carlton – Hôtel de la Paix. Collectors and enthusiasts are invited to preview these exceptional timepieces prior to the sale from May 7th to May 11th.

A Masterpiece of Enamel Art: another Suzanne Rohr’s Tribute to Vermeer

A true masterpiece of horological art, the Patek Philippe Ref. 866/5 "The Wine Glass", featuring an exquisite enamel miniature by Suzanne Rohr, stands as the crown jewel of this auction. Rohr, widely regarded as one of the greatest enamellers of the 20th and 21st centuries, has dedicated her life to the perfection of Geneva’s enamel tradition. Since 1967, she has worked exclusively with Patek Philippe, creating miniature masterpieces inspired by the world’s most celebrated artworks. This particular timepiece, crafted in 1978, is an extraordinary tribute to Johannes Vermeer’s "The Wine Glass" (circa 1660), showcasing Rohr’s unparalleled ability to capture the depth, light, and emotion of the Dutch master’s painting. Every detail, from the delicate expressions to the rich textures of the garments and tablecloth, demonstrates an extraordinary level of finesse. Fresh to the market, this watch has remained in the same family collection for 45 years, preserving its immaculate condition and untouched beauty. Given Rohr’s rarity—producing only a handful of pieces per decade—this timepiece represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for collectors to acquire a work of true artistic and horological significance.

The André Beyner Collection

André Beyner's illustrious career significantly influenced the evolution of electronic and quartz horology. Collaborating with esteemed brands such as Audemars Piguet, Omega, and Longines, Beyner's innovative spirit is reflected in his personal collection. Highlights include:

• Audemars Piguet Ultra-Thin Tourbillon Prototype: The inaugural model of its kind, representing a milestone in haute horlogerie.

• Omega Central Tourbillon: A groundbreaking design positioning the tourbillon at the movement's center.

• Early Quartz Movement Prototypes: Including developments leading to the renowned Beta 21 caliber.

Ultimate Collector’s Icon: Rolex Daytona “Paul Newman”

A legendary timepiece coveted by collectors worldwide, the Rolex Cosmograph Daytona "Paul Newman" Ref. 6262/6239 is an undisputed icon of vintage watchmaking. With its distinctive dial configuration, bold typography, and timeless aesthetics, this reference embodies the golden era of Rolex chronographs. Originally produced in the early 1970s, the 6262 is among the rarest Daytona variations, featuring the coveted exotic dial famously associated with Hollywood legend and racing enthusiast Paul Newman. This particular example, preserved in outstanding condition, showcases the perfect balance of sportiness and elegance, making it one of the most sought-after watches in the world. Revered for its historical significance and enduring desirability, this Daytona is more than just a timepiece—it is a symbol of prestige, craftsmanship, and the golden age of motorsport-inspired horology.

Patek Philippe, Switzerland, Ref. 866/5, "The Wine Glass" by Vermeer, Enamel by Suzanne Rohr, 18k yellow gold

A very fine, unique, fresh to the market, important, 18k yellow gold, manual wind pocket watch with enamel by Suzanne Rohr, original painting by Johannes Vermeer (circa 1660).

Year: 1978
Reference: 866/5
Movement No.: 932722
Calibre: 17-170, 18 jewels
Case No.: 433715
Diameter: 47 mm.
Signature: dial, case and movement
Accessories: fitted box, extract from the archives

C 2-8 D 2-01 M 2* Exceptional

CHF 250000 - CHF 450000 | HKD 2150000 - HKD 3870000
USD 276000 - USD 498000 | EUR 266000 - EUR 478000

Notes

Following the 2 last world records obtained by Antiquorum for Suzanne Rohr pocket watches, "Romanshorn" by JJ Wetzel (see November 5, 2023, lot 365) and "Woman with a water jug" by Vermeer (see May 7, 2022, lot 200), we are proud to offer another undiscovered masterpiece by the world renowned enameler Suzanne Rohr. Consigned by the original family who have kept this masterpiece in their safe for the past 45 years as can be seen by the mint and crisp hallmark on the bow as well as the gold case that has taken a warm patina from remaining untouched. The enamel scene representing the famous scene "The Wine Glass" depicting a lady drinking overlooked by a man by Johannes Vermeer (painted circa 1660) and Suzanne Rohr's talent is once again in full view with amazing details of the tablecloth, garments and facial expressions. Her works inspired by Vermeer are amongst the most collectible pieces.

Provenance

Property of the original German family

Biography

Born in Geneva in 1939, Suzanne Rohr grew up in a family immersed in the classical arts. Interested in drawing and painting from a young age, she demonstrated her passion for achieving finesse and perfection in every stroke. When she finished school, she discovered an exhibition of enamel work at the Art and History Museum in Geneva which she greatly admired. She then went on to train as an enameller and painter of enamel miniatures in the enamelling department at the School of Decorative Arts in Geneva where she studied under Elisabeth Juillerat and obtained her federal diploma in 1959. She was the only student in her class. In recognition of her achievement, the Department of Education in Geneva offered her an additional year’s training in the jewellery class. That same year, she won the Hans Wilsdorf Foundation competition prize for creating a ladies’ bracelet which included a watch in its enamelled decoration. In 1960, unable to find an in-house position, Suzanne Rohr opened her own studio. This marked the start of her freelance career which she has continued to the present day. From 1960 to 1968, Suzanne Rohr strove to find her calling. She also created enamelled jewellery, cups and artwork using cloisonné and champlevé techniques, or decorated with silver and gold leaf. It was in this same period that she met the famous Genevan miniaturist, Carlo Poluzzi (1899-1978). He would become her mentor for the next 28 years. Working closely with him, she refined her technique and dedicated herself entirely to enamel miniatures. She sold several of her miniatures in La Côte-aux-Fées, Le Locle and Neuchâtel and undertook work for watchmaking brands in Geneva. From 1967, Suzanne Rohr began her partnership with Patek Philippe where she met connoisseurs of her art. There, she could express her own point of view and, also, obtain gold of the finest quality, an essential pre-requisite for producing the perfect painting. From 1970, she could rely on regular commissions and on the constant support of the Geneva-based firm and from the Stern family who showed their loyal trust in her for nearly 40 years. Fascinated by the art of miniatures, the harmony of shapes and the beauty of colours, Suzanne Rohr’s heart’s desire was to share her passion for this art and see it continue to be appreciated in the 21st century. In 2017, Suzanne Rohr and her former protégée Anita Porchet (b.1961) were jointly awarded the Special Jury Prize at the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève for the high level of perfection in their work.

Omega, Switzerland, Project P33, De Ville Central Tourbillon Prototype, Brass

A fine, extremely rare, prototype, brass, manual wind central tourbillon wristwatch

Model: De Ville central tourbillon prototype
Year: circa 1991
Reference: Project P33
Calibre: 1170, 48 jewels
Bracelet: leather with a gold plated Omega buckle
Diameter: 39 mm.
Accessories: technical drawing and various correspondence

C 2-6-8 D 2-8-01 M 2* Exceptional

CHF 10000 - CHF 20000 | HKD 86000 - HKD 172000
USD 11100 - USD 22100 | EUR 10600 - EUR 21200

Notes

The Project P33 was again the fruit of the collaboration of probably 2 of the greatest watch engineers Andre Beyner and Moritz Grimm (for another prototype for Audemars Piguet see lot XX). Started in 1991 for Omega, this time the goal for the manufacture's 100th anniversary was to produce something great and unusual. It was decided that a Tourbillon wristwatch would be the perfect watch to create but in order to make it truly unique they decided a central flying tourbillon would be the way to go.

The gearing for the plates was moved to the periphery of the dials into the sides of the watchcase.

Since the traditional position for the center cannon-pinion and time indicators was now taken by the tourbillon cage, engineers had to modify the display mechanism from the Omega Dinosaur. The hands of the central tourbillon were etched onto thin sapphire crystal disks that rotated on top of one another to display the minutes and hours.

The escapement was constructed with a solid gold balance wheel and a blued Breguet balance spring with a Phillips overcoil. The seconds’ indicator was shaped into the Omega symbol and incorporated onto the tourbillon regulator as well. By using a cage constructed of lightweight titanium, the 41-component tourbillon assembly only weighed 0.46 grams; the balance wheel alone weighed 0.20g. The lightweight tourbillon and a platinum rotor mounted directly into the caseback for ideal mass and winding efficiency both contributed to achieve a final power reserve of 45 hours.

This example was one of the very few original prototypes made and was the personal watch of Andre Beyner explaining as well its never before seen "crosshair" dial. A unique opportunity to acquire a piece of Swiss watchmaking history.

Provenance

Former property of Andre Beyner

Andre Beyner/ Maurice Grimm, Switzerland, Project P 29, Prototype No. 1, 18k Yellow Gold

An important, historical, prototype, 18k yellow gold, self winding tourbillon wristwatch made by Ebauches SA for Audemars Piguet.

Model: prototype No. 1
Year: circa 1984
Reference: Project P 29
Movement No.: 1
Calibre: 2870
Diameter: 25 x 36 (with lugs)
Signature: dial
Accessories: original drawings and various correspondence

C 2-8 D 2-6-01 M 2* Exceptional

CHF 15000 - CHF 25000 | HKD 130000 - HKD 216000
USD 16600 - USD 27600 | EUR 15900 - EUR 26500

Notes

Fruit of another collaboration between Andre Beyner and Maurice Grimm, the project was known under code name "P 29". Following the quartz crisis, the goal of the project was to create an ultra-thin tourbillon wristwatch (4.8 mm thick). After some talks with various watch manufacturers, Audemars Piguet decided to go ahead and acquire the project that ultimately became the first automatic Tourbillon wristwatch ever produced under reference 25643 (caliber 2870). Acquired directly from the original family of Mr Beyner, this prototype was the first ever made bearing the number 1. A unique opportunity to purchase a milestone watch made by one of the most recognised watch engineers ever that marked a significant step towards the return of mechanical wristwatches.

Provenance

Former property of Andre Beyner

André Beyner (1927 – April 6, 2023)

André Beyner, born in 1927 in Le Locle, Switzerland, was a distinguished watchmaker whose groundbreaking contributions had a profound impact on the Swiss watch industry. He began his horological education at the Watchmaking School in his hometown before earning the first-ever watchmaking engineering degree from the University of Neuchâtel in 1951.

His career was notably defined by his tenure at Ebauches SA, where he served as an engineer, technical director, and eventually deputy managing director. Beyner was at the forefront of electronic clock development at Ebauches SA, pioneering the use of transistors in timekeeping devices as early as 1958. Alongside Maurice Grimm, his visionary approach led to the creation of the ultra-thin Delirium watch, launched in 1979. In 1967, Beyner joined the Centre Électronique Horloger (CEH) in Neuchâtel, applying his expertise to the development of the Beta 21 caliber, the first Swiss quartz movement.

In 1982, Beyner was awarded the gold medal by the Société Suisse de Chronométrie (SSC) for his “outstanding contributions and services to the watchmaking industry. The honor specifically recognized his innovative and promotional work in the field of electric and electronic horology, including the development and industrialization of movements, components, and products”. In 1984, Beyner transitioned to independent consulting and later chaired the CEH III from 1993 to 1999. This organization was the successor to the Centre Electronique Horloger, founded in 1962 by the Swiss watchmaking industry to conduct research on quartz technology and miniaturization in timepieces.

Beyond his work in watchmaking, Beyner played a key role in research and knowledge dissemination through various esteemed organizations, including CSEM, COSC, LSRH, the Neuchâtel Observatory, and SOVAR. Additionally, he shared his expertise as a professor at EPFL. In recognition of his extensive contributions to the industry, Beyner was honored with the Prix Gaïa on September 16, 2004. He passed away on April 6, 2023.

Ultra-thin tourbillon

In the 1950s, André Beyner (1927-2023) was at the forefront of electronic clock development at Ebauches SA, pioneering the use of transistors in timekeeping devices as early as 1958. Alongside Maurice Grimm, his visionary approach led to the creation of the ultra-thin Delirium watch, launched in 1979. This innovative design integrated the case back with the main plate, drastically reducing the watch’s thickness. Not only did this set a new record for slimness, but it also paved the way for the design of the Swatch watch, introduced five years later. With this prototype, Beyner and Grimm successfully pushed the boundaries of watchmaking, developing the world's first ultra-thin tourbillon incorporating automatic winding.

Together, they went on to develop the Caliber 2870, the first serially produced self-winding tourbillon wristwatch. With some assistance from Valjoux, they produced a prototype of this ultra-thin movement and presented it to several companies, including Audemars Piguet and Omega, to gauge interest in bringing it to market.

Audemars Piguet Tourbillon Prototype

In 1982, Georges Golay, who had previously approved the Royal Oak and the ultra-thin perpetual calendar, recognized its potential and acquired the project for Audemars Piguet. This led to the launch of the groundbreaking Caliber 2870 in 1986, housed inside reference 25643, with an overall thickness of just 4.8 mm. At the time, it was the thinnest serially produced tourbillon wristwatch ever made, marking a milestone in horological history.

Coming originally from the collection of Beyner himself, and subsequently passed down to the current owner, the present example is an extremely important watch historically since it is the prototype Audemars Piguet ultra thin tourbillon numbered 1 of the serie.

The present example, originally from André Beyner’s personal collection and later passed down to the current owner, holds immense historical significance. As the first prototype for Audemars Piguet’s ultra-thin tourbillon, it is uniquely numbered 1 in the series—a true milestone in the evolution of haute horology. This watch represents the first crucial step toward achieving the ultra-thin tourbillon for the manufacture, cementing its place as a pioneering achievement in watchmaking innovation.

Omega Tourbillon Central

Initially, Omega developed its tourbillon wristwatches using the renowned Caliber 30 I from 1947, specifically for observatory timing competitions. However in 1994, the brand introduced the groundbreaking “Tourbillon Central” to commemorate the brand’s centenary (1894–1994). This exceptional timepiece was conceived and developed by André Beyner and Maurice Grimm, marking a revolutionary step in watchmaking.

For the first time in horological history, the tourbillon mechanism was placed at the very center of the watch, becoming the focal point of its design The hour and minute hands were displayed on two sapphire discs, which rotated around the central tourbillon cage—a striking technical innovation. The tourbillon itself carries a seconds hand adorned with the Omega logo, emphasizing the brand’s precision and innovation. Instead of a traditional crown for time-setting, a thumbwheel integrated into the caseback allows independent adjustments.

This revolutionary watch was the result of a project initiated in 1991 under the leadership of Beyner and Grimm. The prototype, named P33, followed Beyner’s unique numbering system —using odd numbers based from his birth year (1927)—with 33 being the fourth project he worked on. The P33 prototype, featuring a non-gold case in its initial form, laid the foundation for the Omega Central Tourbillon, which was launched at the 1994 Basel Fair.

The original movement, developed by Beyner and Grimm, was released in a De Ville case with the central tourbillon caliber 1170. Over time, it evolved, first being replaced by Caliber 2600A in 1997 and later by Caliber 2600B in 2001, cementing its place as a milestone in modern horology.

Bêta 21 caliber

Founded in Neuchâtel in 1926, Ebauches SA was known for manufacturing watch components and movement blanks. In the 1950s, André Beyner (1927–2023) was a pioneer in electronic clock development at Ebauches SA, where he introduced the use of transistors in timekeeping devices as early as 1958.

In 1962, 21 Swiss watch brands and key suppliers collaborated to establish the Centre Électronique Horloger (CEH) in Neuchâtel. Their mission was to collectively guide the transition from traditional Swiss mechanical watchmaking to emerging electronic movements.

Beyner joined the CEH team in 1967, bringing his expertise to the development of the Beta 21 caliber, Switzerland’s first quartz movement. Following the Beta 1 and Beta 2, the Beta 21 marked a major technological breakthrough and served as Switzerland’s answer to the Japanese Seiko Astron and the French Bulova Accutron. Around 6,000 of these movements were produced, powering iconic models such as the IWC Da Vinci, Piaget 14101, Patek Philippe Ref. 3603, Jaeger-LeCoultre Master-Quartz, and Omega Electroquartz.

The exceptional timepieces we are proud to present are milestones in watchmaking history, showcasing Beyner’s groundbreaking research. These include the calibers that won the 1966 and 1967 Neuchâtel Observatory competitions, along with early quartz movement prototypes from Ebauches SA. These pieces represent the foundational steps taken by Beyner in the development and eventual creation of the Beta 21.

Delirium concept

Approximately ten years after the Beta 21 project, the story of the first ultra-slim analog quartz watch began with Gedalio “Gerry” Grinberg (1931–2009), a Cuban-born watch entrepreneur best known as the founder and chairman of the Movado Group. In the late 1970s, after failing to acquire Movado, Grinberg instead positioned Concord as his flagship luxury brand for the American market. With a strong focus on fashionable, ultra-thin watches, he approached Ebauches SA with a bold challenge: to produce a watch thinner than Seiko’s groundbreaking quartz models – e.g. the Seiko Astron –, offering a CHF 2 million reward if they succeeded.

Therefore, in response to the increasing competition from Japanese quartz technology, André Beyner and Maurice Grimm at Ebauches SA, working alongside the legendary movement designer Anton Bally, developed the revolutionary Delirium watch.

We are pleased to present Ebauches SA prototypes of the Delirium concept, showcasing an exceptionally thin design measuring approximately 1.2 mm in thickness. These prototypes exemplify Ebauches SA’s relentless pursuit of innovation in developing the thinnest quartz movement possible, marking a significant milestone in ultra-thin watchmaking.

The final watch was unveiled on January 12, 1979, featuring the ETA Caliber 999.001. At just 1.98 mm thick, it was the thinnest watch ever made at the time. This remarkable achievement was made possible by an innovative design that integrated the movement into the case back, eliminating the need for a separate main plate. This structural breakthrough not only highlighted Swiss ingenuity but also laid the foundation for future ultra-thin timepieces, including the Swatch, introduced five years later.

The Delirium watch was later commercialized by several prestigious brands, including Concord, Eterna, Longines, and IWC. However, there is still some debate regarding the distribution of these prototypes and how they were allocated among the brands.

Given Grinberg’s pivotal role in the project, it was Concord that first brought the Delirium I to market, positioning it as a luxury dress watch. In 1980, they launched the Delirium IV, which set a new record with an incredible thickness of just 0.98 mm. Many promotional materials even featured the Ebauches SA logo on the dial.

As members of the General Watch Company, called ASUAG – a holding company created in 1931 to face the economic crisis in the watchmaking industry –, alongside Ebauches SA., Eterna, and Longines quickly embraced the Delirium concept and were selected to commercialize it as early as 1979. Longines introduced their version as the Longines Quartz Feuille d’Or, while Eterna marketed theirs as the Eterna Espada Delirium Très Mince. IWC, in turn, released the IWC Delirium Très Mince Ref. 3000.

Building on the Delirium concept, Omega developed the caliber 1355, which powered the famous Dinosaure, launched on March 19, 1980. However, during testing, the movement proved fragile and prone to breakage. As a result, Omega refined the final production model, increasing the case thickness slightly from 1.35 mm to 1.48 mm to ensure greater durability and reliability.

Beyond its technical achievements, and despite its limited production and delicate nature, the Delirium project had a lasting impact on Swiss watchmaking. ETA used Delirium’s groundbreaking integrated construction as the foundation for the Swatch watch, launched on March 1, 1983. By applying this innovative design to an affordable, mass-market quartz timepiece, Swatch helped revitalize the Swiss watch industry during the quartz crisis, proving that Swiss manufacturers could compete with Japanese quartz watches through both technological ingenuity and bold design innovation.

Rolex, Switzerland, Ref. 6262/ 6239, Cosmograph Daytona Paul Newman, Stainless Steel

A very fine, rare, very well-preserved, stainless steel, manual wind chronograph wristwatch with "Paul Newman dial“.

Brand: Rolex, Switzerland
Model: Cosmograph Daytona Paul Newman
Reference: 6262/ 6239
Year: circa 1970
Case No.: 2547455
Bracelet: stainless steel Rolex folded bracelet (7835/271) dated 71, approx. overall length 178 mm.
Diameter: 36
Caliber: 727, 17 jewels
Signature: dial, case and movement

C 2-8 D 2-55-01-05 M 3* Exceptional

CHF 100,000 - 200,000 | HKD 900,000 - 1,800,000
USD 116,000 - 232,000 | EUR 108,000 - 214,000

Notes

One of the rarest cosmograph Daytona models, reference 6262 was produced around one year in 1970-1971, the defining feature of the 6262 was an upgraded caliber 727 movement with higher frequency (21600 beats per hour) and better precision. It was the last Rolex chronograph watch to be fitted with pump pushers.

Never offered on the market before, this watch was consigned by a family who kept the watch for more than 25 years. Still fitted on its tight original bracelet 7835/19, end link 271 dated 4.71, the watch has been kept in excellent condition still showing a thick case and a beautifully preserved dial that has turned to an appealing cream color.

About Antiquorum

Antiquorum, The World’s Premier Auctioneers of Modern and Vintage Timepieces, established in Geneva in 1974, has carved its own unparalleled niche in the auction world by cultivating a thriving collector’s market for timepieces worldwide and consistently obtains the highest prices for timepieces, auctions timepieces with exceptional provenance and rarity and has set many world records. Resolutely avant-garde, Antiquorum was the first auction house to offer full online service with the possibility to place absentee bids or register to bid in real time during the auction.

Antiquorum holds auctions in Geneva, Hong Kong and Monaco with previews held in major cities worldwide. With its internationally recognized staff of watch experts providing unsurpassed expertise and services and its dedicated pursuit of innovative auction methods, Antiquorum continues, more than ever before, to make history in time.

For more information, please visit antiquorum.swiss