The Ten Most Expensive Watches

From vintage Patek Philippe masterpieces with rare complications to cutting-edge Richard Mille prototypes worn by world-class athletes, the following ten watches have achieved extraordinary prices at auction. Defined by mechanical ingenuity, exceptional craftsmanship, and storied provenance, these timepieces represent the rare convergence of innovation, heritage, and exclusivity. Explore the top 10 most expensive watches sold at auction since 2024.

1. Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime Reference 6300G Circa 2021, 5,400,000 USD

This Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime Reference 6300G was sold for 5,400,000 USD in June 2024. A timepiece of extraordinary complexity, the above piece is the pinnacle of Patek Philippe’s horological mastery. Introduced in 2016, this model marked the brand's first grande sonnerie watch in its permanent collection. Featuring twenty complications and including five chiming modes and a reversible case, the Patek Philippe Grandmaster Chime is a testament to the brand's innovative prowess.

This particular watch was notably owned by legendary actor Sylvester Stallone. Accompanied by a grand presentation box, literature, and numerous accessories, this watch was a comprehensive collector’s item. Stallone’s ownership further solidified its place as a unique and highly desirable piece, making it the top-selling Patek Philippe watch sold by Sotheby's this year. Indeed it ranks as one of the most expensive Patek Philippe watch examples we have sold in our 280 year history.

2. Patek Phillipe Reference 2499 'Second Series' Circa 1957, 4,320,000 USD

Patek Philippe Reference 2499 'Second Series' | Retailed by Gobbi Milano: An important pink gold perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch with moon phases, Made in 1957 — Patek Philippe Reference 2499 'Second Series'

This Patek Philippe Reference 2499 ‘Second Series’ was sold for 4,320,000 USD in June 2025. One of the most iconic perpetual calendar chronographs ever made, this rare pink gold 2499—through Gobbi Milano—is one of only nine known examples in its configuration, and the only one with a retailer-signed dial. Preserved in remarkable condition, with sharp hallmarks and deeply fluted lugs, this watch combines rarity, provenance, and timeless design in a way few others can.

Originally sold by the family of the original owner in 2007, it has appeared at Sotheby’s, each time drawing global attention. With its Wenger case, Stern Frères dial, and extraordinary retailer connection, this 2499 is a landmark trophy from the golden era of complicated wristwatches.

3. Patek Philippe Reference 2524/1 'Third Series' Circa 1954, 1,605,500 USD

Patek Philippe Reference 2524/1 | Retailed by Gübelin: A pink gold minute repeating wristwatch, Made in 1954 — Patek Philippe Reference 2524/1 'Third Series'

This Patek Philippe Reference 2524/1 was sold for 4,320,000 USD in June 2025. One of only two known examples in pink gold and the only one with a double-signed dial, this minute repeater was manufactured in 1954 and by Gübelin. Its Caliber 12’’’ RM movement, developed in partnership with Fritz Piguet, is revered for its acoustic clarity, especially as the gongs are mounted directly to the case band for enhanced resonance.

Its elegant Vichet case, paired with a Stern Frères dial, makes it a study in mid-century horological refinement. First unveiled publicly in 1989 at the “Art of Patek Philippe” sale, this rediscovered gem is among the most desirable and musically exceptional vintage minute repeaters ever offered.

4. Richard Mille Prototype 3 Reference RM27-01 Rafael Nadal Circa 2014, 1,270,000 CHF

Richard Mille Watch — Richard Mille Prototype 3 Reference RM27-01 Rafael Nadal

This Richard Mille Prototype 3 Reference RM27-01 Rafael Nadal was sold for 1,270,000 CHF in May 2025. This model showcased an exceptional blend of innovation and athleticism. A product of the collaboration between Richard Mille and tennis legend Rafael Nadal, this model represented the culmination of extensive research and development. Weighing only 19 grams with the strap, it was one of the lightest tourbillon watches ever produced. The movement, weighing just 3.5 grams, was rigorously tested by Nadal throughout his tennis season, proving its resilience against extreme shocks and movements.

Constructed from grade 5 titanium and aluminum-lithium alloy, the movement was suspended by braided steel cables, allowing it to withstand accelerations of up to 5000 G. The case was crafted from grey anthracite polymer injected with carbon nanotubes to ensure exceptional durability. Limited to 50 pieces worldwide and further rarefied by its prototype status, this piece was a coveted collector's item.

5. Patek Philippe Reference 2499J 'Third Series' Retailed by Tiffany & Co. Circa 1966, 1,143,000 CHF

Patek Philippe Watch — Patek Philippe Reference 2499J 'Third Series'

This Patek Philippe Reference 2499J was sold for 1,143,000 CHF in May 2025. The above piece was by Tiffany & Co. and is widely regarded as one of the most important perpetual calendar chronographs ever made by the Patek Philippe brand. Produced between 1978 and 1984, this third-series model represents a significant period in Patek Philippe's history. As one of only 349 pieces made, this watch is extraordinarily rare.

Patek Philippe's longstanding relationship with Tiffany & Co. dates back to 1851 and further enhanced the significance of this watch. The dual signatures on the dial are a testament to the collaboration between two iconic brands. The rarity, coupled with the rich history, made this watch a standout piece in the auction and attracted significant attention from collectors.

6. Patek Philippe Reference 2499, 'Second Series' Circa 1960, 8,128,000 HKD

This Patek Philippe Reference 2499 2nd Series was sold for 8,128,000 HKD in April 2025. Originally produced in 1960, the above model is an extraordinary example of Patek Philippe perpetual calendar watchmaking. This specific model was consigned by an important collector and is one of only 48 known examples of the second series. The yellow gold case is marked by well-fluted lugs and prominent hallmarks, adding to the watch's allure.

The watch’s journey through the auction circuit further enhanced its desirability. Having first appeared in Hong Kong in 1992 and most recently resurfacing at auction in 2007, the watch’s provenance added to its historical value. The meticulous details and craftsmanship of this Patek Philippe watch made this a highly sought-after example.

7. Rolex 'Tropical Paul Newman' Daytona Reference 6241 Circa 1968, 914,400 USD

This Rolex Daytona Reference 6241 ‘Tropical Paul Newman’ was sold for 914,400 USD in June 2025. Produced for only a few short years between 1965 and 1969, the reference 6241 is among the rarest vintage Daytonas ever made. What sets this example apart is its remarkable “tropical” dial, where the black sub-registers have aged into a warm, tobacco-like tone, creating a richly patinated and highly appealing contrast against the ivory white main dial. With its original black acrylic bezel and pump pushers, this watch bridges classic Daytona aesthetics with the more imposing presence seen in modern designs.

Only a limited number of 6241s were fitted with exotic Paul Newman dials, making this example exceedingly rare. The Art Deco-inspired layout—with sunken subdials, square indexes, and a stepped outer track—exemplifies Rolex’s unique visual language during the era. Housed in a 37 mm stainless steel case and powered by the manual-wind Valjoux 722-1 movement, this watch remains in exceptional condition. All lume plots are intact and evenly aged, and the case retains its proportions. Accompanied by a black-and-white period photograph of the watch by Enrique Muyshondt, this piece not only represents the pinnacle of Paul Newman Daytonas but also captures the artistry and soul of vintage Rolex.

8. Patek Philippe Reference 5531R-012 World Time ‘Rare Handcrafts’ Circa 2021, 787,400 USD

This Patek Philippe Reference 5531R-012 was sold for 787,400 USD in June 2025. The first wristwatch to combine a minute repeater with world time in a single, integrated movement, the 5531R-012 is a marvel of modern Patek Philippe engineering. Housed in a rose gold case with skeletonized lugs and a hand-enameled cloisonné dial depicting Lake Geneva, this piece unites horological complexity with artisanal craft.

The Caliber R 27 HU chimes the local time shown at 12 o’clock—an unprecedented feature—while the direct gong-to-case attachment ensures superb tonal clarity. As production of this model has ended, this example stands as a collector’s piece of the future: innovative, intricate, and rooted in Patek Philippe’s métiers d’art legacy.

9. Rolex Reference 6263 ‘Panda Paul Newman’ Daytona Circa 1969, 762,000 USD

Rolex Reference 6263 Daytona ‘Panda Paul Newman’ | A stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with bracelet, Circa 1969 — Rolex Reference 6263 ‘Panda Paul Newman’ Daytona

This Rolex Daytona Reference 6263 ‘Panda Paul Newman’ was sold for 762,000 USD in June 2025. An icon among collectors, this particular configuration is one of the most visually distinctive and coveted of all Paul Newman Daytonas. Featuring a crisp white dial with contrasting black subdials and a black acrylic bezel, the watch earned its “Panda” nickname for its high-contrast layout. This example also stands out for its rare Mark I dial, originally made for the 6240, which is easily recognized by the unique “R” in “Rolex”—short and wide, with a stubby tail. The reference 6263 marked a major shift in Daytona evolution, offering screw-down pushers and the upgraded Valjoux 727 movement for improved water resistance and precision.

The rarity and condition of this watch elevate it further. The absence of the red “Daytona” text at 6 o’clock reinforces the watch’s clean and classic look. The Mark I dial alone places it among the earliest and most desirable executions of the reference. Paired with a stainless steel case, screw-down pushers, and original Oyster bracelet, this example captures the transition between earlier experimental Daytona designs and their modern legacy. For collectors, a 6263 Paul Newman Panda in this condition represents not just a legendary Rolex, but a peak moment in vintage chronograph design.

10. Patek Philippe Reference 3448 ‘Padellone’ Circa 1974, 736,600 USD

Patek Philippe Reference 3448 ‘Padellone’ | Retailed by Beyer: A white gold automatic perpetual calendar wristwatch with moon phases, Made in 1974 — Patek Philippe Reference 3448 ‘Padellone’

This Patek Philippe Reference 3448 was sold for 736,600 USD in June 2025. This automatic perpetual calendar in white gold, by Beyer in 1974, is one of just around 130 examples in this metal and features a coveted double-signed dial. Nicknamed “Padellone” for its large 37.5 mm case and bold proportions, the 3448 embodies the era’s forward-looking design language.

Powered by the Caliber 27-460 Q, widely considered one of the finest automatic perpetual movements ever made, this watch combines technical mastery with stark modernist beauty. Its sloped bezel, minimalist dial, and historical retailer provenance make it an essential acquisition for collectors focused on post-war innovation.

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