Sotheby's AREA_51 Auction Brings Alien Wristwear to Geneva
Prepare for Abduction from april 1st-3rd, 2025
AUCTION NEWS | 300 WORDS | 2 MIN READ
9th March, 2025: Geneva is about to experience an extraterrestrial encounter as Sotheby's, in collaboration with the creative watch collective heist-out, announces AREA_51, a captivating exhibition and live auction of "alien wristwear." This otherworldly event, coinciding with Watches & Wonders, promises to be a thrilling continuation of their groundbreaking partnership.
From Underground Caves to Outer Space
Following the resounding success of last year's "Rough Diamonds" auction, which celebrated unconventional vintage watches in a unique wine cave setting, Sotheby's and heist-out are taking their innovative approach to new heights – or rather, new galaxies. "Rough Diamonds" saw all 24 lots sell out in under an hour, with many exceeding their high estimates, proving the appetite for adventurous and visionary watch designs.
Now, with AREA_51, they're launching the concept into the cosmos. The three-day event, running from April 1st to 3rd, will transform Geneva into a top-secret alien research station, complete with a crashed UFO as its centerpiece.
A Fully Immersive Experience
The chosen location, La Salle Trocmé, will be transformed into an immersive experience showcasing all 51 lots of "alien wristwear." Visitors can expect to step into a world of extraterrestrial horology, with the exhibition area and auction saleroom designed to resemble a clandestine alien research facility.
What to Expect
UFO-Themed Exhibition: The exhibition, opening on April 1st, will feature 51 unique and unconventional wristwatches, each with an "alien" aesthetic.
Evening Reception : On April 2nd, guests can attend an exclusive evening reception, immersing themselves further in the AREA_51 experience.
Live Auction: The climax of the event will be the live auction on April 3rd, where collectors will have the opportunity to bid on these extraordinary timepieces.
Initial Highlights: Sotheby's has teased 10 initial highlights, with the full declassification of all 51 lots to follow.
A Legacy of Unconventional Horology
This collaboration builds on the success of "Rough Diamonds," which highlighted the work of visionary designers like Gilbert Albert, Charles de Temple, and Jacqueline Dimier. AREA_51 promises to continue this tradition, showcasing timepieces that push the boundaries of traditional watchmaking.
Prepare for an out-of-this-world horological experience as Sotheby's and heist-out bring AREA_51 to Geneva. This is an event that collectors and watch enthusiasts won't want to miss.
All images in the slideshow have been sourced from Sotheby’s website. Luxury Watch Works does not claim ownership of any of the images. For further information, please visit sothebys.com