- by Daniel Sum, Phillips Watches, China Consultant
The vibrant and energetic city of Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, recently witnessed a momentous horological occasion as Phillips Watches hosted its highly anticipated inaugural event at the Rose Villa Saigon.
With the fresh appointment of Vy Tran as the Phillips Vietnamese Consultant, the highly anticipated two-day event attracted over 100 high-profile attendees, including collectors who flew in from Hanoi Capital, adding to the excitement and prestige of the occasion.
Over the 12th and 13th of October, the event, in collaboration with LUXUO group, captivated watch enthusiasts with educational seminars on two of the most iconic watches of the 21st Century: the Bao Dai Rolex 6062 and Paul Newman's 6239, which were both hammered in the same year, by the auction house back in 2017, for record prices, 5 060 000 CHF and 17 752 000 USD respectively.
“This milestone event not only ignited horological passion within the local community but also solidified Ho Chi Minh City's position as a burgeoning hub for watch enthusiasts and collectors.” - Vy Tran, Phillips Consultant, Vietnam
The prestigious auction house, renowned for its impeccable over 2-years track record of white glove sales in the global watch market, made a resounding impact, drawing an enthusiastic crowd of collectors, aficionados and watch connoisseurs from around Vietnam.
Titled, “Where History Comes Alive”, the event marked a significant milestone for the local watch community. The success of the event not only solidified the auction house's position as a leading authority in the global watch market but also highlighted the growing interest and sophistication of Vietnamese collectors.
Mr. Thomas Perazzi, Deputy Chairman, Head of Watches Asia, presented enlightening educational seminars, offering collectors an immersive experience into the captivating stories. and significance behind two legendary watches.
The first seminar focused on arguably the most desirable watch model in the world, the Daytona, notably discussing Paul Newman's iconic Daytona reference 6239, a watch that has become an icon in the realm of vintage watch collecting. Collectors were able to fully appreciate what makes the Paul Newman of Paul Newman so special.
The second seminar touched closer to home and delved into the royal history and allure of the Bao Dai Rolex 6062, a timepiece with a prestigious lineage and immense rarity. Considering Bao Dai “Keeper of Greatness” was the Last Emperor of Vietnam, it came as no surprise that there was a strong desire and intrigue by Vietnamese collectors to learn more about the late Emperor’s lifestyle and taste in watches. Mr. Perazzi was able to share deep insights, shedding light on the historical context, craftsmanship, and cultural impact of this iconic watch.
"The seminar on the Bao Dai Rolex 6062 was the highlight of the event. It provided a deep dive into the historical significance and craftsmanship of this rare timepiece. It's wonderful to see Phillips entering the Vietnamese market here today in Ho Chi Minh City, and recognizing the importance of local Vietnamese collectors – it makes me so proud" - Mr. Kim Hiep, Watch Collector
These educational seminars on the Bao Dai Rolex 6062 and Paul Newman's 6239, showcase the auction house's commitment to excellence, knowledge sharing, and fostering a vibrant watch community. They offer a unique opportunity for attendees to delve into the captivating narratives and technical intricacies of the Bao Dai Rolex 6062 and Paul Newman's 6239.
As Phillips Watches continues to nurture the watch market in Vietnam, watch enthusiasts can look forward to more enriching experiences, educational seminars, and captivating exhibitions that celebrate the timeless allure of horology.
“By providing a platform for horological education, Phillips Watches is committed in contributing to the growth and development of the local watch community, nurturing a new generation of informed and discerning collectors in Vietnam” - Thomas Perazzi, Deputy Chairman of Phillips, Head of Watches, Asia
Phillips Watches believes in the long-term growth of the Vietnamese watch market and is committed in providing the most unique opportunities for watch enthusiasts to appreciate the artistry and heritage of these iconic timepieces.
Events like this serve as catalysts for growth, fostering horological appreciation and bringing together enthusiasts and experts. Phillips Watch’s foray into Ho Chi Minh City's watch market promises an exciting future, elevating the city's status as a horological destination and providing watch enthusiasts with access to exceptional timepieces from around the world.
