Auctions

MacArthur’s Jaeger-LeCoultre sells for $94K

AuctionsFeb 07, 2016

MacArthur’s Jaeger-LeCoultre sells for $94K

The watch that belonged to the five-star general known for his service in Pacific theater during World War II more than quadrupled its highest pre-sale estimate.  

Geneva--The Jaeger-LeCoultre Ref. 201 Early Reverso that once belonged to U.S. Gen. Douglas MacArthur, realized $94,212 at the Antiquorum sale held over the weekend, more than four times its highest pre-sale estimate.

A five-star general, MacArthur was known for his service in the Pacific theater during World War II. His watch, made circa 1935 and sold by Golay Fils & Stahl, had his initials, “D Mac A,” on the reverse side.  


The wristwatch was part of Antiquorum’s May 10 sale of Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces, which was held in Geneva and totaled just more than $7 million. The auction house said bids for the lots came in from across the globe, including China, Hong Kong, the United States and Switzerland. 

The top lot of the sale was a Patek Philippe Ref. 2499/100 Fourth Series originally sold by Tiffany & Co. It went for nearly $507,700 on Sunday, slightly less than its pre-sale high estimate but still enough to make it the highest-grossing lot of the auction. 

Considered one of the most iconic models ever produced by Patek Philippe, the wristwatch was made circa 1980 in 18-karat yellow gold with round-button chronograph, 30-minute register and a perpetual calendar. 

Full auction results are available on Antiquorum.com.

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