Bidding on time

The Monaco-based "Only Watch" auction brought an exclusive preview to Bangkok last month. Organiser Julien Schaerer says that Internet users can follow and participate in the bidding live no matter where they are and even when they are in their pyjamas.

The highlight is the RM 027 Rafael Nadal by Richard Mille, worn by the then world No 1 through every match he played in 2010. It's also the prototype used for pre-production testing, and comes packed with technological innovations. The starting bid is 400,000 euro (Bt17.2 million).

The auction aims to raise funds for HSH Prince Albert II's Monaco Association for its fight against Muscular Dystrophy, which affects 250,000 people globally.

Apart from Nadal's, another one-of-a-kind timepieces going under the hammer is the HM4 Thunderbolt by MB&F. The watchmaker collaborates with Huang Hankang to create a unique piece featuring a flying panda bear riding the cosmo. 

Fellow Swiss watchmakers Patek Phillipe should generate most excitement among collectors, says auctioneer Schaerer - primarily because their creation for the auction is a version of a model no longer available. The starting bid for their Minute Repeater Ref 3939A with unique 33.3mm stainless steel case, black enamel dial with Breguet-style hands and interchangeable sapphire crystal back, is 450,000 euro (Bt19.35 million).

Among the renowned watchmakers who have donated timepieces to Only Watch 2011 are Patek Philippe, Harry Winston, Ulysse Nardin, Hubolt, Richard Mille, Chopard, De Bethune, MB&F, Laurent Ferrier, Audemars Piguet, Urwerk, Celsius X VI II, Ikepod, Corum, Piaget, Tag Heuer, Dewitt, Breguet, Franck Muller, Louis Vuitton and Chanel.

Interested bidders can go to www.Antiquorum.com to register and get access to the live auction.