Konstantin Chaykin Drawing Sells for CHF 21,000
On 6 September, during Geneva Watch Days, Phillips in Association with Bacs & Russo hosted a charity auction that drew the attention of international collectors and watch enthusiasts. The sale featured 19 carefully selected lots, each representing a unique creation or experience contributed by leading brands and independent watchmakers. Among the highlights was Autumn, a drawing by Konstantin Chaykin, which achieved CHF 21,000 under the hammer.
Supporting Horological Education
The event raised a total of CHF 185,900, with proceeds directed to the École d’Horlogerie de Genève. Founded in 1824, the school is recognised as the oldest watchmaking institution in Switzerland. Over two centuries it has educated generations of watchmakers and technicians, providing training that combines traditional skills with contemporary innovations. Alumni of the school have gone on to work with both historic maisons and independent ateliers, ensuring continuity and excellence in Swiss horology.
By channelling funds to this institution, the auction not only provided financial support but also highlighted the collective responsibility of the watch industry to safeguard its future. The education of new craftspeople remains essential as demand for mechanical timepieces continues to grow.
The Role of Phillips and Bacs & Russo
Phillips has established itself as a leading auction house in the world of fine watches, while its partnership with Bacs & Russo has further cemented its reputation for curating significant sales. The firm is known for bringing rare and historically important timepieces to market, as well as for organising charitable initiatives that engage the wider horological community. Holding the auction during Geneva Watch Days gave the event additional visibility among both professionals and collectors.
The Significance of Chaykin’s Contribution
Konstantin Chaykin is regarded as one of the most original independent watchmakers of his generation. Based in Moscow, he has created a number of inventive complications, including the Joker watch and other pieces within his Wristmons series, which have become icons of contemporary independent horology. His work often blends mechanical ingenuity with artistic expression, making his contribution to the Phillips auction particularly symbolic.
The sale of Autumn illustrates the growing recognition of Chaykin’s creativity across borders. For collectors, the acquisition of this drawing represents not only support for an educational cause but also ownership of a unique expression from a figure who bridges watchmaking and art.
Geneva Watch Days Context
Geneva Watch Days, established in 2020, has become an important platform for independent brands and major maisons alike. The fair takes a decentralised approach, with exhibitions across the city rather than in a single convention centre. It has grown into one of the key fixtures on the horological calendar, offering an open and collaborative environment. The charity auction held within this framework reinforced the event’s role as both a commercial and cultural meeting point for the industry.
