The present lot, Reference 1016 is a very rare and desirable timepiece not only due to its “Tiffany & Co.” signature seldomly found on Explorer models, but its historical provenance. The watch was one of seven 1016 Explorer’s sold in a famous 2014 Sotheby’s auction on behalf of the estate from American philanthropist and thoroughbred breeder Paul Mellon. The “R.L.M.” on the case back corresponds to “Rachel Lambert Mellon”, Paul’s wife, better known as “Bunny Mellon”. The couple was well known for their generosity, and the watch was likely a gift to a friend or family member.
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You have agreed to be bound by the Conditions of Sale and if your bid is successful, you are legally obliged to pay for the lot you have won. The purchase price for a successful bid will be the sum of your final bid plus a buyer’s premium, any applicable taxes and any artist resale royalty, exclusive of shipping-related expenses.
Condition report
A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.
The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.
The watch is in very good condition with moderate scratches and nicks throughout case. The watch has a heavy indentation at the lower left lug. The crystal has light scratches. The dial is in excellent condition and the hour markers have developed a wonderful patina. The dial covets a “Tiffany & Co.” signature at the lower half. The hands have developed a matching patina and have heavy spotting. The case back has light scratches and nicks with a personal engraving reading “Thomas Reed With Appreciation R.L.M. 1981”. The bracelet has light to moderate scratches and wear. The bracelet has light stretch. The movement is in working order at the time of cataloging. The movement has not been tested for accuracy. A service is recommended given the age of the watch.
Please note that the bracelet size is measured with the watch head attached.
1. All lots are sold "AS IS", and this condition report is provided purely as a goodwill service and may not specify all mechanical replacements or defects. The absence of any reference to the condition of a lot does not imply that the lot is in good condition and without defects, repairs or restoration. You are accordingly encouraged to view the lots personally or through your own professional advisor.
2. For further information on these issues, please refer to the terms and conditions.
We thank you for your interest in the forthcoming sale. We remind you again that all property is sold “as is” and should be viewed personally by you or by your professional advisor before the sale to assess its condition.
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Lot 201Sale 20963
ROLEX, RETAILED BY TIFFANY & CO., REF. 1016, EXPLORER, A VERY FINE AND RARE STEEL WRISTWATCHEstimate: USD 20,000 - 40,000
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