Phillips Record Breaking Watch Auction Demonstrates the Rich Remain Rich.

 

If the record breaks g stock market gains weren't convincing enough that the end is nowhere near nigh, the auction market should be good evidence of it.  Phillips recent watch auction in the Hotel President in Geneva on May 9 and 10 2026 broke all records, selling 224 of 225 lots, and $96.3 million in sales. 

In particular, 43 world records were broken, including Patek's setting higher benchmarks than ever, F.P Journe demonstrating its significance to the collectors market, and even independent brands such as Akrivia which pulled in £2.86 million for a AK-06 reference.

According to Aurel Bacs and Livia Russo, consultants in the watch collecting and art collecting worlds, watches are now alongside fine art, jewellery, and rare cars, in respect of collectibles.  We're not convinced, but it's definitely impressive, and certainly shows that if the drain is being circled, there's clearly a great deal of water left in the sink.