In a special online-only sale, Sotheby’s is presenting three unique prototypes from Officine Panerai. The bidding is open now and goes on until November 19, so get your bids in quickly!

Designed to commemorate the first anniversary of Panerai’s flagship store on New Bond Street in London, this auction offers the exclusive prototypes for the yet-to-be-released Lab-ID, a 2010 prototype for the Mare Nostrum and an exceptional riff on the Radiomir.

Normally, prototypes are not offered for sale, often held by the brand or even worn by the CEO or watchmakers. Having the possibility to buy a prototype is an amazing opportunity for collectors.

“We are thrilled to offer these unique pieces in auction, says Jean-Marc Pontroué, Panerai CEO. “Our R&D team works relentlessly to design and create new models that encompass the history of our brand with a determined look towards the future. With this special auction we are aiming to satisfy clients who look to differentiate themselves and value the utmost exclusivity.”

Panerai views Sotheby’s as the perfect partner to work with on this new initiative – the two companies partnered on a 2017 online auction in which a bronze Luminor Submersible watch sold for five times its low estimate.

“For 274 years Sotheby’s has presented collectors with opportunities to purchase some of the rarest and finest objects in the world,” says Laurence Nicolas, Global Managing Director of Sotheby’s Jewelry & Watches Divisions. “Watch prototypes are such treasured pieces, for they not only tell the story of a brand but also shed light on the history of horology. Never before has Panerai allowed collectors to acquire prototypes and we are thrilled to partner with them again this year in this innovative online auction format.”

Visit the auction at www.sothebys.com or via the Sotheby’s App on iOS and Android. The watches will be available to see in Sotheby’s New Bond Street galleries from now until the 14th November.

Remember, bidding closes on November 19.