Upcoming Auctions Highlight Antique Jewelry and Watches

As the holiday season approaches, auction houses are gearing up for pre-Christmas sales featuring a selection of antique jewelry and watches. Notably, Adam's Fine Jewellery and Ladies' Watches auction is set for December 2, 2025, showcasing a variety of exquisite pieces, including a late 19th-century diamond tiara that can convert into a necklace, with an estimated value of €5,000-€7,000. The auction reflects a growing interest in antique jewelry as consumers seek unique gifts during this festive period.

The Irish Times

Among the highlights at Adam's auction is a 1940s Vacheron & Constantin retro secret bracelet watch, valued between €8,000 and €12,000. This piece exemplifies the trend of ladies' watches being designed as bracelets, often concealing the watch within the design. Another notable item is a Kashmir sapphire ring, priced between €100,000 and €150,000, which is part of a collection from the Guerlain family, known for their luxury perfumes. Kashmir sapphires are particularly sought after due to their rarity, having been mined for only a brief period in the 1880s.

The Irish Times

Claire Mestrallet, Adam's director of jewellery, expressed enthusiasm for the inclusion of the Kashmir sapphire, noting that previous auctions featuring these stones attracted international buyers from countries such as India, Hong Kong, and Australia. The auction also features a Cartier Art Deco-style pearl, diamond, and onyx cocktail watch, valued between €12,000 and €18,000.

The Irish Times

In addition to the December 2 auction, Adam's will host a men's watch auction on December 3, featuring high-value items like a Longines Sommatore chronograph wristwatch, estimated at €40,000 to €80,000, and a Rolex Submariner Date, valued between €10,000 and €15,000. Meanwhile, Adam's of Blackrock is conducting an online auction that concludes on December 3, offering a range of more affordable jewelry and watches, with estimates starting from €150 to €450.

The Irish Times

Courtville Antiques in Dublin is also engaging potential customers through educational initiatives. Owner Matthew Weldon has introduced classes focusing on the history of jewelry design, covering styles from the Victorian era to Art Deco. These courses aim to enhance understanding of how jewelry has evolved alongside fashion trends and cultural movements.

The Irish Times

While the auctions highlight the allure of antique jewelry, some critics argue that the high prices of rare pieces may alienate average consumers looking for affordable gifts. The focus on luxury items could overshadow the accessibility of more budget-friendly options available at other auctions.

The Irish Times

• “When the lady brought me in her jewellery for sale, I thought it was a Kashmir sapphire, but I didn’t say anything. I told the directors we should have it tested and they laughed at me,” — Claire Mestrallet, Director of Jewellery at Adam's

The Irish Times

• “There are classes on how to make jewellery, or how to grade gemstones, but we are keen to run courses looking at how jewellery styles evolved through historic fashion icons and how jewellery featured in portrait paintings,” — Matthew Weldon, Owner of Courtville Gallery

The Irish Times

The upcoming auctions at Adam's and other venues reflect a vibrant market for antique jewelry and watches, appealing to collectors and gift-givers alike during the holiday season.

The Irish Times