Will Marlon Brando’s Rolex watch shatter records when it’s auctioned? Why celebrity timepieces are all the rage
Watches such as Paul Newman’s Daytona, Elvis Presley’s Omega and Bruce Lee’s Universal Genève are among those to have shattered records
Provenance is always an important determining factor when it comes to the value of collectibles. Royal heritage is often associated with high-value antique jewellery pieces that surface at auction. However, with a much briefer history than gems, wristwatches that fetch high prices are often linked to more contemporary names, and often those of celebrities.
Royal heritage is often associated with high-value antique jewellery pieces that surface at auction
Ahead of the sale of Marlon Brando’s Rolex this December, we take a closer look at the timepiece and its significance. We also look at some celebrity-linked timepieces that have shattered records in the past.
Marlon Brando’s Rolex GMT-Master, set to go under the hammer in New York on December 10 at Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo, has a hand-engraved signature by the actor on the caseback. The words “M. Brando” engraved rather imperfectly, marks the provenance of this timepiece, which was worn by the actor in the film Apocalypse Now.
The Rolex GMT-Master ref. 1675 dates back to the early 1970s, and was passed down to Brando’s daughter Petra Brando Fischer in 1995. In 2003, Petra later gifted the watch to her husband Russel Fischer, who is said to never have worn it.
A portion of the proceeds from the sale will go to supporting children of abuse, neglect and poverty through the work of a charity established by the Fischers.
There has been no word yet from Phillips as to the estimated price for the watch.