A high-profile Patek Philippe wristwatch once owned by Andy Warhol is set to head to auction at Sotheby’s, reflecting the enduring appeal of Warhol’s personal artifacts among collectors. The piece is a 36 mm, 18k rose gold case watch, crafted in 1955, a period noted for elegant, timeless design from the renowned Swiss jeweler. The enamel dial bears the inscription Serpico Y Laino, honoring the Venezuela-based retailer that once held exclusivity with Patek Philippe, a detail that adds a layer of provenance to the timepiece. Inside lies the legendary automatic caliber 12’600, a mechanism celebrated for reliability and precision among vintage watches. Sotheby’s representatives anticipate a selling range of $40,000 to $80,000 for this late artist’s watch, underscoring Warhol’s lasting influence in the art and collectibles market. [Sotheby’s Auction House, provenance notes]
The journey of this watch traces back to 1988, when Sotheby’s facilitated its sale to a private collector. Over the years, the seller’s holdings broadened to include Warhol’s paintings, jewelry, and interior items, creating a broader narrative around this period of Warhol’s life and the circle of collectors who valued his personal possessions. Such sales highlight the intersection of art and high-end horology, where a single timepiece can carry decades of stories, exhibitions, and cultural resonance. [Auction records, catalog notes]
Collectors and enthusiasts often explore the lineage of Patek Philippe models tied to influential figures. The Serpico Y Laino engraving on the dial is more than a mark of an exclusive Venezuelan retailer; it is a reminder of the brand’s global footprint and the way regional partnerships contributed to a watch’s historical value. The combination of a compact 36 mm case, rose gold warmth, and a finely tuned movement makes this watch a standout for both everyday wear and display in a curated collection. [Brand history, retailer partnerships]
The auction landscape for celebrity-owned timepieces remains vibrant, with bidders drawn to the rarity, authenticity, and story embedded in each item. This Warhol piece joins a broader trend where art-adjacent collectibles cross over into luxury horology, attracting buyers who appreciate the synergy between visual culture and mechanical craftsmanship. Sotheby’s is positioned to attract a diverse pool of bidders, including fashion-conscious collectors, museum curators, and investors seeking a tangible link to Warhol’s world. [Market analysis, auction insights]
In related news, Sotheby’s has highlighted other iconic items in recent sales, including high-profile sneaker collections and rare artist-signed works, signaling a strategic focus on marquee lots that blend cultural significance with investment potential. While prices can vary based on condition, provenance, and market sentiment, this Warhol-linked Patek Philippe watch stands as a distinctive example of how a personal object from a legendary figure can command attention in a competitive auction environment. [Auction house press notes]