Words: Russell
Robin Williams was a man known across the globe for his celebrated career. An era-defining stand up, groundbreaking TV actor and monumental movie star, appearing in a long list of classics from Good Morning Vietnam to Dead Poets Society, via Mrs. Doubtfire.
But what you might not know is that Williams was an avid collector of art, toys, and – showing a strong collector’s eye – luxury watches.
Now this incredible collection, which includes 44 different timepieces, is being made available at auction thanks to Williams’ wife of 20 years, Marsha Garces, a film producer, philanthropist and art lover.
After collecting his Oscar for Best Supporting Actor in Good Will Hunting in 1997 Credit: Arthur Grace
The sale takes places at Sotheby’s, New York, and boasts film memorabilia from a Dead Poet Society vest to Golden Globes for his performances in Mrs. Doubtfire, Good Morning Vietnam and Mork & Mindy.
A portion of the proceeds will be going to a selection of causes and charities that were close to Robin and Marsha.
Our watch editor, Russell Sheldrake, explores the horological highlights from the sale, and suggests the timepieces to keep an eye on.
IWC Platinum Limited Edition Big Pilot (2010)
Estimate £9,165 — £13,748
A classic style from IWC in the rarest of materials, a very special timepiece that might not seem too luxurious at first glance.
Panerai Limited Edition Titanium Divers Compass (2004)
Estimate £1,146 — £1,528
A very rare piece from the Florentine watchmaker that was very much built to withstand the toughest conditions.
Breitling Stainless Steel Triple Calendar Montbrilliant (2005)
Estimate £1,528 — £3,055
A high flying model that was designed perfectly with the overlapping subdials giving great depth to the watch face.
Urban Jürgens Platinum Perpetual Calendar (1995)
Estimate £9,165 — £13,748
One of the most desirable complications — perpetual calendar — in one of the most desirable metals — platinum — this is one extremely special watch.
Hamilton Gold Plated Quartz, worn in Dead Poets Society (1988)
Estimate £764 — £1,528
While it might not have a fantastic movement the styling is classical and it stars in one of William’s most iconic films — Dead Poets Society.
Frank Muller White Gold Imperial Tourbillon Minute Repeater (1998)
Estimate £19,094 — £26,732
Technically this watch is incredible, yet the visuals are truly stand out, in the tonneau case the tourbillon really steals the show.
Panerai Stainless Steel Luminor Marina (1998)
Estimate £2,291 — £3,819
Able to go anywhere with you, this model speaks to Panerai’s history of military-grade dive watches.
Jaeger LeCoultre Titanium Diving Pro Geo Master Compressor (2008)
Estimate £4,583 — £6,110
A technical masterpiece from Jaeger LeCoultre this watch combines a GMT function with a mechanical depth gauge
IWC Titanium Perpetual Calendar Portuguese (2005)
Estimates £7,638 — £11,457
One of the most sort after IWC watches out there this is an incredible example of what IWC can do when they put their mind to it.
The auction is happening at Sotheby’s New York on October 4th. You can register to bid now through the Sotheby’s website.
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