Graham - Est 1695

Chronofighter and Swordfish Watches Set to Sell

Wilson 55 are proud to announce a fantastic selection of collector's timepieces in our forthcoming watch auction taking place on 17th March. Featuring over 70 wristwatches and pocket watches from private and discerning collectors across Cheshire and beyond, this exciting sale includes Rolex, Patek Philippe, Panerai, Vacheron & Constantin, IWC, Zenith and many more. Two such watches in the sale are from the world-renowned watchmakers Graham

Graham Watches take their name from Fleet Street horologist George Graham, one of the greatest watchmakers of the 17th century, who made over 3,000 watches during his lifetime. Amongst his achievements, Graham developed the pendulum system made from mercury for enabling a clock to keep time despite temperature increases or decreases, and he also invented the first stopwatch. In 1725, Graham constructed an observatory timer that measured intervals of 1/16th of a second, leading to Graham's legacy as the 'father of the chronograph.'

Eric Loth founded the Graham Watch Company in 1995, specialising in chronograph wristwatches and inspired by George Graham's heritage. Today, Graham watches are based in La Chaux de Fonds in Switzerland, and are renowned for their innovative and bold timepieces, of which are produced in extremely limited numbers, ensuring the exclusivity of this brand is maintained. Featuring in our sale are two Graham watches in superb condition, complete with boxes and paperwork, in two of Graham's most celebrated and innovative designs. 

Graham Chronofighter Collection

The iconic Chronofighter Chronograph was launched in 1995 as Graham was re-established, and remains one of the company's most popular and instantly recognisable collections. Harking back to vintage military aviation pieces, the Chronofighter Chronograph features a distinctive chronograph lever to the left hand side of the case. This feature was inspired by 1930s and 40s bomb timers, so designed to enable World War Two pilots to operate their chronograph watches using a trigger system with their thumbs whilst wearing mittens in their often cold jet fighter cock pits. 

This patented Trigger technology acts in the modern day Chronofighter to protect the crown, and provide a start/stop button for the chronograph functions of the watch. Encased in an imposing 42mm case, this bold and eye-catching watch forms the cornerstone for Graham's collections, and is released in varying designs and limited quantities.   

Wilson 55 are delighted to offer a stunning 18ct gold Graham Chronofighter Chronograph watch, created to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Chronofighter Chronograph. In superb condition, and with all the original paperwork and boxes, this rare and substantial timepiece is truly a collector's item. Although available to purchase in steel and bronze, 18ct gold Chronofighters are not currently available via retail channels, and only a couple of examples have come to auction over the past couple of years. This sensational timepiece is offered with an estimate of £6,000-8,000.

 

Graham Swordfish Collection 

Another Graham watch to feature in this sale is a stainless steel Swordfish watch. The Swordfish collection was the result of a design competition held by the firm in 2001. The winning entry was later dubbed the 'Swordfish,' and became a resounding success for the company. 

Undoubtedly the most arresting feature of the Swordfish design is the oversized hour and minute sub-dials to 3 and 9. These dials are covered with 20% magnifying glass. It has been suggested that these iconic dials bear a resemblence to portholes, or the large eyes of the swordfish. A fierce marine predator, the swordfish is said to improve its vision by heating up its eyes, enabling them to catch their fast moving prey in cold water conditions. 

The Swordfish watch is typically bold and dynamic for a Graham watch, with a statement 46mm case. This wonderful example is circa 2009 and features a black dial, luminescent markers, red accents and a black rubber strap, complete with box and papers, and is offered with an estimate of £1,500-2,500.

 

How much are Graham Watches Worth at Auction?

Owing to their relative rarity, superb craftsmanship and bold designs, Graham watches are highly sought after at auction by collectors. Examples in good condition, complete with boxes and paperwork, and limited edition timepieces can also fetch a premium. Wilson 55 have an established and discerning buyer base, and experience of selling Graham watches exceptionally well under the hammer. Contact a member of our team today to enquire about selling your Graham watch through auction. 

A ladies stainless steel Graham Chronofighter 1695 Lady Moon wristwatch, no. 1021, the signed grey dial with baton and diamond hour markers, moon phase to 12, subsidiary seconds dials and date aperture to 6, quartz movement, within a stainless steel case numbered AN-2CXBS, with maker's lizard skin strap, case diameter 36mm, with maker's box and certificate of origin. Sold for £1,220.

 


For further information about the above watches, or any of the timepieces in our auction, contact us via liz.bailey@wilson55.com

 

View the 17th March catalogue in full here. To obtain a free online auction valuation of your own collection, click here, or email us to arrange a valuation appointment.  

 

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