The first of three Philippe Dufour Simplicities under the hammer this week in Hong Kong just got sold by Christie’s watch department for USD256,396 (HKD1,980,000). Which would also make this the first ever Simplicity to have gone under the hammer at an international auction and sold off.

The particular piece sold by Christies, was an 18k white gold one; number 61 produced by Mr. Dufour in 2003.

The other two that are up for grabs are presently in the care of Phillips Watches waiting to go under the hammer tomorrow evening. If you are interested, they are lots number 1090 and 1091 on the auction catalogue.

Both pieces at Phillips are listed with estimate figures of between HKD960,000 to HKD1,440,000. Christie’s had their solo piece listed to hammer for between HKD800,000 to HKD1,400,000, which is quite similar to that of Phillips’ but, of course, now that a formal price has been paid — a staggering HKD 580,000 above Christie’s estimate — it’s safe to assume that a price expectation has now been set for the pieces sitting with Phillips Watches. And mind you — and this is pointing out the obvious again — Phillips Watches has not one, but two Simplicities going under the hammer on the same night.