Fall 2026 Phillips Watch Auction Season: Major Sales Across Three Cities
Fall 2026 Watch Auction Season: Phillips Unveils Major Lineup
The fall 2026 watch auction season is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, with Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo leading the charge across three major cities: Geneva, Hong Kong, and New York.
Upcoming Phillips Watch Auctions
Phillips has confirmed the following schedule for the remainder of 2026:
| Auction Name | Location | Dates | Type |
|---|---|---|---|
| Geneva Sessions Online | Geneva | Sep 4 – Sep 11 | Online |
| Hong Kong Sessions Online | Hong Kong | Sep 17 – Sep 24 | Online |
| New York Sessions Online | New York | Oct 1 – Oct 9 | Online |
| Geneva Watch Auction: XXIV | Geneva | Nov 7 – Nov 8 | Live |
| Hong Kong Watch Auction: XXIII | Hong Kong | Nov 21 – Nov 22 | Live |
| New York Watch Auction: XV | New York | Dec 5 – Dec 6 | Live |
What to Expect at the Geneva Watch Auction: XXIV
The November Geneva sale is expected to be the season's highlight, with the corrected F.P. Journe Résonance 022/99 (estimated CHF 500,000-1,000,000) among the headline lots. The auction house is also accepting consignments for the Hong Kong and New York sales later in the year.
The Pre-Owned Watch Market in 2026
The pre-owned luxury watch market continues to mature, with several trends shaping the auction landscape:
- Online auction growth: Phillips' online sessions extend access to global bidders, with fall online auctions running for 7-8 days each
- Independent watchmakers surge: Brands like F.P. Journe, De Bethune, and MB&F are increasingly competitive with traditional houses
- Asian market expansion: Hong Kong remains a critical market, with dedicated live auctions and viewing events
- Vintage renaissance: Mid-century timepieces from Rolex, Patek Philippe, and Omega continue to attract strong interest
How to Participate in Watch Auctions
For collectors looking to buy or sell at auction this fall:
- Register early: Create an account with the auction house well in advance of sale day
- Attend previews: Physical viewings allow you to inspect lots in person — essential for high-value purchases
- Set a budget: Remember to account for buyer's premium (typically 25-26%) on top of the hammer price
- Consider condition reports: Request detailed condition reports from the auction specialist team
- Use absentee bids: If you cannot attend in person, submit maximum bids in advance
Phillips Perpetual: Year-Round Pre-Owned Sales
Beyond auctions, Phillips Perpetual offers a curated selection of pre-owned watches at fixed prices through physical and digital storefronts. Current inventory includes pieces from Rolex, Patek Philippe, F.P. Journe, Cartier, and Audemars Piguet, with prices ranging from entry-level to six figures.
FAQ
When is the best time to sell a watch at auction?
The fall season (September-December) typically sees the highest auction volumes and strongest prices, as major houses schedule their flagship sales. Spring sales in Geneva and New York also perform well.
What buyer's premium do auction houses charge?
Buyer's premium varies by auction house but typically ranges from 25-26% on the hammer price. Phillips charges 26% on the first CHF/USD 1 million and 21% above that threshold.
Can I bid online at Phillips auctions?
Yes, Phillips offers online bidding for both live and online-only auctions. You can also place absentee bids or bid by phone for high-value lots.
Source: Phillips Auctioneers, August 2026
Related: Phillips Auction Calendar | How to Sell Your Watch