Patek Philippe Sold for S$6,880,000: Last Emperor Puyi
Formerly owned by Aisin-Gioro Puyi, the last Emperor of the Qing Dynasty, is a rare Patek Philippe timepiece known as the Ref. 96 Quantieme Lune which was sold for HK$40,000,000 (S$6,880,000) at today’s Philips auction!
Image: philips.com
This particular model is one of only eight of its kind in existence. Made of platinum, the wristwatch showcases various features including a triple date function, small seconds, moon phases, a roulette-dial, enamel Arabic numerals, and pink gold Feuille hands. Despite its pristine condition, the dial holds an interesting secret, a testament to the Emperor’s curiosity during his time in captivity.
Following the surrender of the Japanese forces in 1945, Aisin-Gioro Puyi found himself in the custody of the Soviet Red Army. He endured five years of imprisonment in Russia before finally being allowed to return to China. During his incarceration, Puyi formed a close bond with his interpreter, Georgy Permyakov, who would later play a significant role in the destiny of the timepiece.
Idle Hands and a Curious Mind
While in captivity, Puyi often battled boredom, seeking solace in various creative pursuits. One day, his curiosity turned towards the mechanism of the Ref.96 Quantieme Lune. Fascinated by the watch’s construction, Puyi enlisted the help of his servant, Li, a versatile craftsman whom he trust. He instructed Li to open the watch and examine its internal mechanisms, specifically questioning the composition of the dial. Intrigued by the possibility of a platinum dial matching the watch’s platinum casing, Puyi urged Li to carefully remove the surface layers for a closer inspection.
As Li meticulously peeled away the layers, Puyi’s initial assumption was proven wrong. Contrary to his expectations, the dial revealed itself to be crafted from brass rather than platinum. Realizing the value of the watch lay in its exceptional craftsmanship rather than the dial material, Puyi promptly halted any further tampering, preserving the watch’s original state.
The Watch’s Journey Continues
Upon Puyi’s release and subsequent return to China, his friendship with Georgy Permyakov endured. As a gesture of gratitude and friendship, Puyi presented the Patek Philippe Ref. 96 Quantieme Lune to Permyakov, cementing their bond. Permyakov cherished the timepiece until his passing in 2005 when it transitioned into the hands of his estate. Today, the watch found its way to the current owner, marking the continuation of its intriguing journey.
The Patek Philippe Ref. 96 Quantieme Lune holds extraordinary historical significance as a timepiece owned by Aisin-Gioro Puyi, the last Emperor of the Qing Dynasty. Its rarity, coupled with the captivating story of Puyi’s curiosity, the trust of his servant, and friendship with Georgy Permyakov, make it a true collector’s gem.
This watch, adorned with a scratched but undeniably charming brass dial, stands as a testament to the Emperor’s pursuit of knowledge even during his most challenging times. As it embarks on its next chapter, this timepiece preserves the rich legacy of a bygone era and the enduring human connections it forged.