Franck Muller - Disruptors: Evening Sale of 20th Century & Contemporary Art, Design and Watches Hong Kong Thursday, May 25, 2023 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Franck Muller
    Year: Circa 2004
    Reference No: 2870 NADF
    Case No: 14
    Model Name: Chronographe Double Face
    Material: 18K yellow gold
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 1872, 17 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: 18K yellow gold Franck Muller pin buckle
    Dimensions: 37mm diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by Franck Muller Certificate of Origin stamped Franck Muller Osaka and dated 7th July 2004, instruction manual, leather folio, fitted presentation box and outer packaging.

  • Catalogue Essay

    Famously known for being the acclaimed masters of complications, Franck Muller has created some of the most technically challenging and ultra-complex timepieces packed with complications since inception of the brand. One of their most prized and appreciated timepieces were their chronographs, especially the earlier models from the late 1990s and early 2000s. Not only known for creating complicated timepieces, Franck Muller is also a trendsetter to an extent by being one of the pioneers of creating timepieces based off incredible vintage models that has inspired a new appeal to the industry, which is evidently reflected in today's trend of vintage-inspired timepieces.

    Being one of Franck Muller's early creations during arguably the most fascinating period of the firm, the Double Face chronograph is a classic fully geared chronograph timepiece with two dials with the backside complete with pulsations, telemeter and tachymeter scales. Taking his inspiration from vintage Omega and Longines chronograph pocket watches, it is important to note that the concept was also perceived from a vintage Movado double faced chronograph.

    Powered by the manual cal. 1872, the legendary movement has powered many other iconic Franck Muller timepieces. While the Double Face Chronograph model was in production until 2010 with various dial designs, materials and case sizes ranging from 37mm to 44mm, it is no wonder that connoisseurs of the firm adore this model due to its rarity, craftsmanship and diversity. Notably, the revived Franck Muller 30th Anniversary 'Tribute' Double Sided Rattrapante Chronograph is evidently inspired by the present timepiece, with an additional split-seconds module.

    Offered in excellent overall condition, the present Franck Muller Double Face Chronograph ref. 2870 NADF in 18K yellow gold from circa 2004 is a rare bird that has recently gained a following due to the rising trend of early Franck Muller chronographs.

  • Artist Biography

    Franck Muller

    Swiss • 1991

    Specializing in top-quality timepieces, Swiss watchmaking company Franck Muller was founded in 1991 in Geneva. The company was named after watchmaker Franck Muller, also known as the "Master of Complications," and Vartan Sirmakes, Co-Founder and CEO of the Franck Muller Group. Shortly after graduating from watchmaking school in the 1980s, Muller was among the first to create his own tourbillon wristwatch, along with world-renowned brands Patek Philippe and Vacheron Constantin.

    In addition to Muller's fine craftsmanship and intricate complications, the brand is often recognized for its modern designs and colorful flare. To date, the brand's notable lines are the Curvex, Crazy Hours, Casablanca, Conquistador, Long Island and Aeternitas, as well as Revolution2 and Revolution3.

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Ref. 2870 NADF
A rare and attractive yellow gold double-faced chronograph wristwatch with two-tone silvered dials, pulsations, telemeter and tachymeter scales, Certificate of Origin and presentation box

Circa 2004
37mm diameter
Case, dial, movement and buckle signed

Estimate
HK$80,000 - 160,000 
€9,300-18,700
$10,300-20,500

Sold for HK$190,500

Contact Specialist

Anastasia Salnikoff
Head of Mid-Season Sales
+852 2318 2014
anastasiasalnikoff@phillips.com
 

Thomas Perazzi
Head of Watches, Asia
+852 2318 2001
WatchesHK@phillips.com
 

Disruptors: Evening Sale of 20th Century & Contemporary Art, Design and Watches

Hong Kong Auction 25 May 2023