MUMBAI.- AstaGuru recently concluded its Jewellery, Silver & Timepieces Auction - The Exceptionals, held on 12-13 May, 2024. The selection showcased exquisite jewellery, impressive silver works and extraordinary timepieces. The finely curated catalogue featured a wide range of pieces that display the exceptional design and craftsmanship to emerge from different eras and parts of the world.

Speaking of the success of the auction, Jay Sagar, Jewellery Expert at AstaGuru Auction House said, “We are elated with the response to the auction. The results are indicative of the collectors’ enduring interest in acquiring vintage and vintage inspired jewellery, that showcase the designs and intricate craftsmanship of eras gone by. The meticulous curation paid emphasis to showcasing a vast array of sought after gemstones such as Zambian emeralds, Burmese rubies, impeccable diamonds and natural pearls.”

Lot no. 53, A Vintage Natural Pearl Necklace was sold for INR 2,04,88,421. The five row necklace features finely matched natural pearls and Art Deco side terminals set with old cut diamonds in platinum.

A Vintage Suite Of Art Deco Platinum Jewellery, lot no. 26, was acquired for INR 1,86,91,200. This French made suite comprises a necklace, a bracelet, a pair of ear clips and a ring.Mounted in platinum, the suite is set with old European cut diamonds, diamond baguettes and Burmese ruby cabochons.

Lot no. 60, An Important Spinel & Diamond Necklace is mounted in gold and styled as a single row of graduating old European cut diamond florets, suspended with a fringe of natural Burmese spinel drops and old cut diamonds. This lot was acquired at a value of INR 1,29,67,020.

Jehangir Readymoney, AstaGuru’s Luxury Timepiece Expert, stated, “The growing interest in luxury and vintage watches reflects in the success of the auction. Several limited edition, rare and vintage watches from eminent luxury timepiece makers saw sizable interest from new and seasoned collectors alike. High complication pieces as well as statement intricate watches were also sought after.”

A Patek Philippe Nautilus Stainless Steel Wristwatch Ref No. 5726/1A-010, lot no. 180, was sold for INR 99,58,905. This Nautilus annual calendar wristwatch with day, date, moon phases, 24 hours indication on a striking piano white dial, features a stainless steel brushed and polished bracelet with a folding clasp.

Lot no. 125, A Cartier Tortue 18k White Gold & Diamond Wristwatch (Limited Edition) Ref No. 2617 J, was acquired at INR 44,39,160. The rare and attractive limited edition tonneau-shaped wristwatch features a diamond-set case, crown and bezel along with a cloisonne enamel dial depicting a white horse racing through mystical clouds and waves.

Lot no. 121 is An Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Dual Time 18k Rose Gold Wristwatch Ref No. 26120OR.OO.D088CR.01. Housed on a chocolate brown crocodile strap attached by a double deployment clasp, the lot includes a solid screwed down caseback. The solid three-body case, flat octagonal bezel with 8 screws, are polished/brushed. This lot was sold for INR 32,12,550.

Lot no. 61 is A Pair Of Hallmarked Victorian Four-Light Silver Candelabra, which was acquired at INR 30,37,320. This rare pair of ornate four light candelabra features a decorative central column and fine acanthus decorated branches, with each resting on three feet.

Lot no. 73, An Impressive Silver Water Fountain was sold at a value of INR 21,76,823. A fine example of decorative silver objects created in North India, the presented silver water fountain rests on three feet with detailed chase work executed on the top section, while the bottom showcases embossed designs on the receiver bowl.

The auction also witnessed collectors looking primarily at diamond, emerald and natural pearl jewellery from the Art Deco era or in traditional Indian designs. The preferred wristwatches included those from famed watchmakers such as Jaeger LeCoultre, Piaget and Rolex. The vintage silver too was immensely popular with trays by revered silversmiths as well as ornate decanters.