Expert Tips: 5 Investment Auction Lots To Watch This Week (#2)
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.
1. POUL HENNINGSEN. Table lamp, PH 4/3, for Louis Poulsen
We’re in the deep of Autumn and with the light rapidly waning, what better way is there to invest your money, than in this stunning (and very rare) PH 4/3 Poul Henningsen table lamp from the 1920s?
The PH 4/3 table lamp, designed by the renowned Danish architect and lighting designer Poul Henningsen for Louis Poulsen (read our article about him here), is a masterpiece of functional and aesthetic design.
Poul Henningsen’s design philosophy was rooted in the pursuit of perfect, glare-free illumination. The PH 4/3 achieves this with its ingenious three-shade system. It features a conical shade on top to direct light downward, a smaller shade below to prevent glare, and a larger, bottom shade to diffuse soft, ambient light. This unique arrangement creates a harmonious and balanced lighting experience, making it ideal for various settings, from living rooms to office spaces.
Crafted with precision, the PH 4/3 boasts a timeless and minimalist aesthetic that seamlessly fits into both modern and classic interiors. The lamp’s meticulous craftsmanship and attention to detail are emblematic of Louis Poulsen’s commitment to quality and enduring design.
Poul Henningsen’s PH 4/3 table lamp is not only a functional lighting fixture but also a work of art that transcends time. It exemplifies the fusion of form and function, setting the standard for beautifully crafted and effective lighting.
The lamp is estimated to make between 10.800–12.500 USD, and the current bid is just under 9.000 USD.
See the lamp here and make a bid at Stockholms Auktionsverk.
2. ROLEX, wristwatch, Sea-Dweller, “Double Red”, circa 1976.
The Rolex Sea-Dweller “Double Red” is a legendary timepiece that was no doubt one of the most advanced diving watches of its time. Introduced in the late 1960s, this iconic watch quickly gained a reputation as a professional diver’s essential tool.
What sets the “Double Red” apart is its distinctive dial, characterized by two lines of red text, a unique feature that collectors and enthusiasts have come to adore (hence the nickname “Double Red”). The red text boldly contrasted with the black dial, making it not only a functional instrument but also a visually striking timepiece.
Rolex designed the Sea-Dweller “Double Red” to withstand the extreme pressures of deep-sea exploration. With its incredible water resistance, it was engineered for saturation divers, who would spend extended periods underwater in high-pressure environments. Additionally, the inclusion of a helium escape valve allowed the watch to release built-up helium and maintain its structural integrity during decompression.
This particular watch is from 1976. The specifications are as follows: Automatic, plastic crystal, date, ref. 1665, serial no. 4187238, cal 1570, original oyster bracelet, folding clasp, clasp no. A, 93150/585, diameter 40 mm, certificate, box. Dial: 7/10. Case: 7/10. Bracelet: 7/10.
Over the years, the “Double Red” Sea-Dweller has become a sought-after collector’s item, appreciated for its historical significance, robust construction, and unmistakable design. Its place in Rolex’s heritage as a pioneer in professional dive watches is undeniable, and its enduring appeal among watch enthusiasts makes it a true classic in the world of horology.
Valued at 18.000-22.500 USD with a current bid at 13.000 USD, this is a bit of a sleeper, as these watches rarely go for under 30.000 USD.
See the watch here and make a bid at Stockholms Auktionsverk.
TOP TIP:
When buying watches it is important to verify the originality, functionality, and condition of the case, mechanism, and dial. Are all parts original, has something been replaced or restored, has the case been polished? All of these things are factors that can impact price greatly.
3. Andy Warhol — “Mao”. Colour silkscreen, 1972. Signed
Andy Warhol, an iconic figure in the pop art movement of the 20th century, revolutionized the art world with his bold, innovative approach to visual culture. His “Mao” silkscreen print, created in 1972, is a quintessential example of his style.
This striking artwork features a vividly colored, larger-than-life portrait of Chairman Mao Zedong, China’s enigmatic political leader. Warhol’s technique involved mass-producing images through silkscreen printing, blurring the lines between high and low culture.
“Mao” exemplifies his fascination with celebrity, consumerism, and political imagery. It challenges our perceptions of power, propaganda, and artistic expression, making it a thought-provoking masterpiece in Warhol’s extensive body of work.
A variation of the same work sold in 2021 at Christie’s Auction House for 48.500 USD. This work is valued at 27.000–35.000 USD with a current bid of 18.000 USD, making it a solid opportunity.
See the work here and make a bid at Stockholms Auktionsverk.
4. HERMES “Birkin” Handbag — Togo calfskin — Gris Meyer.
The Hermes Birkin handbag is a symbol of luxury, elegance, and craftsmanship. Named after the iconic British-French actress Jane Birkin, this exquisite accessory has become one of the most coveted and recognizable bags in the world of high fashion.
Designed in 1984 by Jean-Louis Dumas, the Birkin is the embodiment of Hermes’ commitment to exceptional quality and timeless design. Crafted by skilled artisans using the finest materials, each bag is a labor of love, taking countless hours to complete. The attention to detail is impeccable, from the choice of the finest leathers and materials to the hand-sewn stitching and hand-painted edges.
What truly distinguishes the Birkin is its customizable nature. Customers can select from a wide range of materials, colors, and hardware options to create a bespoke piece that perfectly aligns with their individual style. The bag’s signature features include its distinctive saddle stitching, a lock-and-key closure, and the option to add personal initials or other unique touches.
The Birkin’s exclusivity and enduring appeal make it a status symbol and investment piece in the world of fashion. It’s not merely a handbag; it’s a work of art, a testament to craftsmanship, and a symbol of sophistication and luxury.
This bag is unused and comes with all the trimmings. Valued at 11.200 USD it is a far throw away from its MSRP at 29.500 USD.
See the bag here and make a bid at Stockholms Auktionsverk.
5. ARNE JACOBSEN “The Egg” armchair for Fritz Hansen
We started this article with lighting and as we are in the midst of autumn, what better way to end the article with a comfy chair? The best chair!
Arne Jacobsen’s Egg Chair (read our article about him here), is an iconic masterpiece of mid-century modern design, that really brings together form and function (like many other Danish mid-century designers). Designed in 1958 as part of his larger commission for the Radisson Blu Royal Hotel in Copenhagen, this chair is a paragon of innovation and sophistication.
The Egg Chair’s most distinctive feature is its enveloping, cocoon-like shape, which offers both comfort and privacy. Jacobsen’s meticulous attention to ergonomics and aesthetics is evident in every curve and angle.
The chair’s frame, made of molded fiberglass, is expertly padded and upholstered in luxurious fabric or leather, with a swiveling base that enhances its functionality.
What sets the Egg Chair apart is its ability to provide not just a place to sit, but a serene and sheltered space in which to relax or engage in private conversations. Its timeless design and undeniable elegance have earned it a place in the pantheon of design classics, and it has been featured in numerous films and television shows.
Valued at 3.200–3.600 USD, the current bid at 1.700 USD leaves room to play.
See the chair here and make a bid 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!