Antiquorum, Philips, Christies and Sotheby’s have a lot of the usual suspects, but some very cool dare to be different lots as well. The brands that constitute the bulk of the offerings during any given watch auction week, are there for a reason, or rather, for several reasons. Interest in them is widespread and consistent;...

A Universal Genève revival, a Fifty Fathoms with a story to tell, and a parade of horological icons—this season’s Phillips auction is a collector’s dream realized. Just to avoid burying the lede: This spring’s Phillips Auction is absolutely elite. It’s an electric offering of horological mastery, museum-worthy pieces at nearly every turn, and it demands...