This Tech Tycoon’s Collection of F.P. Journes, Pateks, and More Could Fetch Millions at Auction
Hindman has lined up one helluva horological haul for collectors this fall.
The Chicago-based auction house will sell the late Glen de Vries‘s epic watch collection in New York on October 18. The auction inaugurate the house’s New York showroom, and will feature 100 rare timepieces from 30 renowned watchmakers. Reflecting the late entrepreneur’s passion for science, space, and speed, the wrist candy is expected to collectively pull in some $2 million.
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De Vries was the co-founder and CEO of Medidata Solutions, a technology company that develops software to power clinical trials for academic institutions, pharmaceutical companies, and other researchers. De Vries had a lifelong fascination with space travel. In fact, he was one of four individuals to journey into the stratosphere with Blue Origin in 2021, but he died in a plane crash later that year. He also had a keen interest in timekeeping and amassed an enviable collection of watches over the course of his life.
All of the lots are exceptional, but there are a few standout pieces worth noting. The first is a platinum Tourbillon Souverain from F.P. Journe‘s exclusive Black Label collection. The watches in this line were only offered to a select few loyal collectors and represent the pinnacle of haute horlogerie. The example on offer, which was made in 2012, is equipped with two complications that contribute to its precise timekeeping and striking aesthetic. The remontoir d’égalité provides constant force to the escapement, while the seconde morte ensures the seconds hand ticks without hesitation. In addition, the tourbillon enhances accuracy and also serves as a mesmerizing focal point. The coveted piece is expected to fetch between $250,000 to $450,000.
Another highlight is the Richard Mille RM-6101 “Yohan Blake.” As its moniker implies, this model was created in collaboration with Olympic sprinter Yohan Blake and designed to withstand the G-forces of rigorous athletic competition. The 50 mm asymmetrical case was made from blackened ceramic, while the skeletonized movement was crafted from titanium and carbon to reduce weight and improve durability. The watch also showcases bright green and yellow hues in honor of Blake’s Jamaican roots. The eye-catching piece is expected to hammer down for between $150,000 to $250,000.
Other standouts of the upcoming sale include a platinum A. Lange & Söhne Datograph Up/Down “Lumen” (estimate: $120,000 to $180,000), an 18-karat rose-gold F.P. Journe Octa Chronograph (estimate: $150,000 to $250,000), and a stainless-steel Patek Philippe Nautilus Ref. 5990 (estimate: $80,000 to $120,000).
“This is truly one of the most remarkable collections I have ever had the pleasure of handling,” Sean Johnson, Hindman’s senior watch specialist, said in a statement. “Mr. de Vries had such a deep appreciation for the science of watchmaking, being drawn to some of the most sophisticated complications like tourbillons, perpetual calendars, flyback chronographs, and other groundbreaking mechanical achievements.”
You can see all the beauties on offer in the catalog here.
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