Expert Tips: 5 Investment Auction Lots To Watch This Week (#4)

Five “sleepers” that could be an excellent investment!

Welcome to the world of antiques and collectibles — where history meets investment potential! Every Monday, we invite you to embark on a journey with us into the realm of auctions as we unveil a carefully curated selection of “sleepers”.

With 15 years of experience in the trade — buying, selling, and performing evaluations for auction houses — we will introduce you to those hidden gems that may very well turn out to be extremely sound investments.

Auction houses have long been the treasure troves where passionate enthusiasts, connoisseurs, and shrewd investors converge to seek out the rare, the exquisite, and the valuable. With a discerning eye and a penchant for uncovering the extraordinary, we have handpicked five auction lots that are poised to capture the hearts and imaginations of both seasoned collectors and novices alike. Let’s dig in!

1. OMEGA Speedmaster Moonwatch 1966.

The Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch stands as an enduring icon in the realm of horology, forever etched in history as the first watch worn on the moon. Launched in 1957, the Speedmaster has since become synonymous with precision, reliability, and space exploration.

In 1969, the Speedmaster achieved unparalleled fame when it accompanied NASA astronauts on the Apollo 11 mission, earning the distinction of being the first watch on the lunar surface. Its robust construction, featuring a manually wound movement and a tachymeter scale on the bezel, made it an essential tool for astronauts, demonstrating its ability to withstand the harsh conditions of space.

The Moonwatch’s timeless design, characterized by its distinctive black dial, luminous hands, and chronograph sub-dials, has remained largely unchanged, preserving its vintage charm and historical significance. The Omega Speedmaster’s association with space missions, including all six lunar landings, solidifies its status as an integral part of human space exploration.

This particular watch is an early version from 1966, with the 105.012 reference, the caliber 321 mechanism, and the highly desirable, original 1039 bracelet with 516 endlinks. (this bracelet and endlink combo alone, could easily set you back 3.000 USD).

Beyond its remarkable extraterrestrial achievements, the Moonwatch holds a special place among watch enthusiasts for its classic aesthetics, precision chronograph function, and its enduring link to mankind’s exploration of the cosmos. As a symbol of innovation and adventure, the Omega Speedmaster Moonwatch continues to capture the imagination of both horology connoisseurs and space enthusiasts alike.

The watch is valued at 4.500–5.500 USD and is going up for hammer auction today. While the condition leaves a few things to be desired (notice the scratches on the back as an example), this is a VERY sought-after, early watch that with some TLC could sell for far beyond this estimate.

See the watch and make a bid here at Stockholms Auktionsverk.

2. HERB RITTS. “Madonna, Tokyo 1987”. Gelatin silver print.

Herb Ritts was an acclaimed American fashion photographer and director, renowned for capturing images of celebrities and models during the 1980s and 1990s. His focus predominantly centered on the art of black and white photography, emphasizing striking portraits that became emblematic of his distinctive style.

Known for his distinctive blend of classical aesthetics and modern sensibilities, Ritts’ photographic work exuded elegance and simplicity. His minimalist yet evocative compositions captured the essence of his subjects. Ritts’ distinctive visual style often utilized strong contrasts, natural light, and clean lines, creating images that transcended mere representation.

In addition to his groundbreaking work in fashion photography, Ritts directed iconic music videos for artists like Michael Jackson, Madonna, and Britney Spears. He also ventured into fine art photography, showcasing a versatility that underscored his artistic depth. Notable for his collaborations with renowned personalities like Madonna, Richard Gere, and Cindy Crawford, Ritts’ images became cultural touchstones, reflecting an era and defining the aesthetics of an age.

Valued at 5.500–6.500 USD with a current bid at 3.500 USD, this is a great opportunity to acquire a piece that could really appreciate over time.

See the print here and make a bid here at Stockholms Auktionsverk.

3. Fender Telecaster, guitar, 1966.

The Fender Telecaster, introduced in 1950, is nothing short of a legend. Revered as the world’s first commercially successful solid-body electric guitar, the Telecaster revolutionized the music industry and became a timeless icon in the hands of countless musicians.

Designed by Leo Fender, the Telecaster boasts a minimalist yet highly functional design. Its solid ash or alder body, bolt-on maple neck, and single-cutaway shape exemplify a blend of simplicity and sophistication. The distinctive “lipstick tube” single-coil pickups contribute to the Telecaster’s signature twangy sound, while its enduring popularity is also attributed to its reliability and versatility across genres.

From country to rock, punk to pop, the Telecaster has proven its adaptability in the hands of legends such as Keith Richards, Bruce Springsteen, and Jimmy Page. Its influence extends beyond music, with its sleek design and groundbreaking features shaping the very concept of what an electric guitar could be.

As a cultural touchstone, the Fender Telecaster continues to inspire musicians and guitar enthusiasts, embodying a harmonious marriage of form and function that has stood the test of time for over seven decades. Its legacy as a pioneering instrument underscores its place in the pantheon of musical history.

This 1966 model is valued at 6.500 USD with a current bid of 3.400 USD, and while repainted you could easily pay double that for this classic piece.

See the print here and make a bid here at Stadsauktion Sundsvall.

4. PIERRE SOULAGES. “Lithographie No 2”.

Pierre Soulages, born in 1919 in Rodez, France, is a towering figure in contemporary art, renowned for his groundbreaking contributions to abstract expressionism and his profound influence on the understanding of light, texture, and the materiality of paint. Often referred to as the “Painter Of Black”, Soulages has dedicated his artistic career to exploring the possibilities of monochromatic abstraction.

Soulages’ signature style involves the extensive use of black paint, which he manipulates to create dynamic textures, reflectivity, and depth. His innovative approach involves scraping, cutting, and shaping the surface of his canvases, giving birth to a tactile and visually arresting interplay between light and shadow.

Beyond his mastery of black, Soulages’ work extends to various explorations of light and form, often utilizing large canvases that invite viewers into immersive experiences. His art transcends traditional boundaries, challenging the viewer’s perception and offering a profound meditation on the essence of painting.

Pierre Soulages’ impact on the art world is huge, with a career spanning over eight decades and accolades such as the Commander of the Legion of Honour in France. His relentless pursuit of new expressions within the realm of abstraction has solidified him as a living legend, and his work continues to captivate audiences globally.

The valuation of 14.800–16.500 USD, might seem a bit strong for some, but these prints have rocketed over the last 5 years — and keep rising. Now is the time to get in!

See the print here and make a bid here at Stockholms Auktionsverk.

5. ANDREAS KOCK, Photo Print — “Stalker Series” — “Naked Turban”.

Andreas Kock, a Swedish-born photographer, has carved a distinctive niche in the world of contemporary fashion and portraiture. Born in 1973, Kock’s photographic journey reflects an unwavering commitment to capturing the essence of his subjects with an unconventional and evocative style.

Do you recall Hitchcock’s “Rear Window”? A mysterious narrative unfolds through a distant window across the courtyard. Andreas Kock, hailing from Stockholm, captures a similar anticipatory tension in his photography series “Stalker”. Initially conceived as a fashion spread (underscored by the perpetual inspiration found in fashion photography), Kock’s images captivate with their emotional depth and meticulously arranged mise-en-scène.

A consummate perfectionist, Kock meticulously refines his stage sets during the conceptual phase. On set, he assumes the role of a theatrical director, diligently translating the vivid mental image onto his Hasselblad or Mamiya. His subjects exude femininity, confidence, and strength, often striking provocative poses.

“I’ve been curious for a while about creating images featuring Wes Anderson-inspired characters and sets, but with a more Edward Hopper-esque aesthetic. So, I basically combined Wes Anderson-inspired characters, styling, and props, and placed them within an Edward Hopper painting.”

Andreas Kock — about the Stalker series.

Kock’s precise, theatrical manipulation of colors and light/dark contrast echoes the artistic finesse of American painter Edward Hopper. This affinity ties back to his yearning for the subtextual, the narratives hinted at but not explicitly revealed in his photographs. Much like Hitchcock’s voyeuristic allure, Kock invites viewers to explore the untold stories and emotional layers concealed within his evocative imagery.

Valued at 5.500–6.500 USD this is a chance to get a fantastic and huge (120–160 cm) statement piece, that will almost with guarantee appreciate over the next decade.

See the print and make a bid here at Stockholms Auktionsverk.

That’s it for this week’s auction Top Tips. Stay tuned for more tips and auction lots next week. Every Monday we will keep you posted with the best ways to spend your money!