Scheduled for Sunday, November 26, Christie’s Hong Kong is set to host The Philippe & Elisabeth Dufour Foundation Charity Auction, showcasing a distinctive Simplicity timepiece crafted by the esteemed watchmaker Philippe Dufour. This exceptional watch holds profound significance as it was specially fashioned to support the newly established charity, The Philippe & Elisabeth Dufour Foundation.
Renowned as one of the most esteemed independent watchmakers, Dufour has meticulously crafted approximately 230 watches throughout his illustrious life and career. Each timepiece bears the hallmark of being meticulously designed and handcrafted by Dufour himself, with minimal external assistance. While the majority of his creations are custom-made, Dufour has introduced three distinctive collections—Grande & Petite Sonnerie minute repeater, Duality, and the Simplicity. True to its name, the Simplicity stands as the epitome of elegance among Dufour’s creations, boasting a minimalist design coupled with exquisite haute horlogerie finishing. The singular Simplicity slated for auction on November 26 features a 38mm platinum case housing a mesmerizing blue aventurine dial.
In June 2023, Philippe Dufour, a living legend in the horology realm, celebrated his 75th birthday at the Hôtel des Horlogers in the Vallée de Joux. This milestone occasion served as the ideal platform for Dufour and his wife, Elisabeth, to announce the establishment of their foundation. The foundation’s primary objective is to address critical global humanitarian needs, encompassing access to essential resources such as food, water, healthcare, housing, education, and environmental support. Presently, the charity has initiated fundraising endeavors across various fronts. The unique piece, estimated to command a price between $1.5 million and $3 million at auction, with all proceeds directly contributing to the Philippe & Elisabeth Dufour Foundation, aims to fund ongoing and future projects.
The Philippe & Elisabeth Dufour Foundation Charity Auction is scheduled to unfold at Christie’s Hong Kong on November 26 at 6 p.m. local time, commencing at 6 a.m. Eastern time in the United States. For further details, please visit Christie’s website.
