Patek Philippe has long been revered for its craftsmanship and precision, but few timepieces are as extraordinary as the one once owned by China’s last emperor, Puyi. This particular Imperial Patek Philippe Ref. 96 is one of only five known full calendar models in the entire world, making it a rarity of immense historical and horological value.
The $6.2 Million Imperial Patek Philippe: A Legendary Timepiece with a New Chapter Coming Soon
Patek Philippe has long been revered for its craftsmanship and precision, but few timepieces are as extraordinary as the one once owned by China’s last emperor, Puyi. This particular Imperial Patek Philippe Ref. 96 is one of only five known full calendar models in the entire world, making it a rarity of immense historical and horological value.
With a beautifully aged, silvered dial and its signature full calendar with moonphase complication, this masterpiece was sold at a Phillips auction for an astounding $6.8 million. The combination of its intricate design and its connection to a pivotal historical figure has solidified its place as one of the most coveted watches in existence.
Why This Sale Was So Iconic
In May 2023, the auction of Puyi’s Imperial Patek Philippe at Phillips set the horological world ablaze. The watch sold for an astonishing $6.2 million, breaking three records: the highest price ever for a Patek Philippe Calatrava, the highest for a watch owned by a historical figure, and the highest price for any timepiece sold at auction in 2023.
The significance of this sale goes beyond the watch itself—it represents the rare convergence of historical, cultural, and horological importance.
Scrolling project align
Puyi’s Life: From Emperor to Exile
Puyi ascended to the throne at the tender age of two, becoming the last emperor of China during a time of immense political upheaval. His life was marked by dramatic changes—from ruling in the Forbidden City to his eventual exile and imprisonment during World War II. Puyi’s life story is one of fallen royalty and survival in an ever-changing world. This watch, given to him during his exile, serves as a testament to his enduring legacy. Its historical weight makes it not just a timepiece, but a tangible connection to a transformative period in world history.
Fill align image pixel
An Emperor’s Timekeeper: Scarred but Survived
This Patek Philippe Calatrava, Ref. 96, wasn’t merely an accessory for Puyi—it was his personal timekeeper through the most challenging periods of his life. The watch accompanied him during his years of exile and imprisonment.
As the last emperor of China, this timepiece marked not only the hours and days of his life but the fall of an empire and his transition from royalty to prisoner. The significance of this watch is tied to Puyi’s identity and his extraordinary journey.
Figjam opacity
A curious emperor
During Puyi’s imprisonment in the Soviet Union, the watch suffered damage—likely due to the harsh conditions he faced in captivity.
Despite these adversities, the timepiece survived, bearing the scars of its extraordinary journey.
These imperfections only add to its mystique, telling the story of resilience, both of the watch itself and the emperor who wore it.
Ref. 96 Quantime de Lune: A Rare Icon
The Patek Philippe Ref. 96 stands as one of the rarest and most coveted models in the world of watchmaking. Known for its clean lines, technical precision, and understated elegance, only five variants of this full calendar, moonphase version exist worldwide. Owning a version of this watch is to possess a part of horological history, a symbol of impeccable craftsmanship and exclusivity.
The Full Calendar & Moonphase: A Technical Marvel
What makes this timepiece truly exceptional is its full calendar and moonphase complications. The full calendar tracks the day, date, and month, while the moonphase adds an astronomical element, showing the current phase of the moon.
These features were incredibly advanced for their time and still hold a revered place in the world of high-end watchmaking. The complexity of these mechanisms is a true testament to Patek Philippe's engineering prowess.
test
The Remake: A Modern Revival of a Historical Icon
In honor of this iconic timepiece with Chinese and Swiss Heritage, we are proud to announce a very limited reinterpretation of the Last Emperors watch. Crafted with the same attention to detail and precision as the original, this modern homage will be produced in official collaboration with Seagull Tianjin manufacturing and feature a custom full calendar movement with moonphase, just like the original.
Pixel asset device
Be Part of the Journey
By joining the waitlist, you'll receive exclusive updates on production and get the chance to vote on design elements and prototypes. Your input will help shape the reedition of this iconic timepiece, making you an integral part of its rebirth.