Eric Clapton's Patek Philippe watch expected at $4.2m in Geneva

Eric Clapton's 'spectacular' Patek Philippe wristwatch stands out among top offerings

Christie's Important Watches auction in Geneva is to see Eric Clapton's Patek Philippe stand out among top offerings from the Swiss manufacturer on November 12.

The only other platinum example is a big draw at the Patek Philippe museum

Reference 2499 was in production with Patek Philippe for almost 35 years, with a total of 349 created during the run. Of these, just two platinum examples were made, both of which were never intended for sale.

While Eric Clapton managed to lay his hands on one of these exquisite timepieces, the other is currently one of the star attractions at the Patek Philippe museum in Geneva. A legendary model, it boasts a stunning combination of design, function, complexity and proportion.

The example at auction was first seen at the now-famed "The Art of Patek Philippe" auction in Geneva in 1989, where it was bought by one of the foremost collectors of Patek Philippe watches in Europe. Since the sale, it has changed hands only once, having been acquired by the legendary guitarist.

In its first appearance at auction for nearly a quarter of a century, the watch is expected to achieve $2.5m-4m.

Also from Patek Philippe is the J B Champion platinum observatory chronometer, which is named after the esteemed collector for whom it was made. The watch is one of two 30mm competition chronometer movements built by Patek Philippe for the Geneva Observatory Precision Contest. Cased in platinum and engraved with "MADE ESPECIALLY FOR J B CHAMPION", it is expected to bring $2.1m-4.2m

Paul Fraser Collectibles is currently offering a superb Longines Olympic Series watch - a classic design from the highly respected Swiss manufacturer. Visit our dedicated Watches & Jewellery news sectionfor more coverage on watch collecting from across the world.