In the world of high-end watch auctions, November matters: this is the month when the big specialist houses of Antiquorum, Christie's, Sotheby's (and now the recently-formed Patrizzi) will expect to achieve some of their highest prices for the best pieces at flagship sales held in the opulent surroundings of Geneva's swishest hotels.

Since the market for pre-owned and vintage luxury wristwatches really took off in late 2001 it has been more or less a given that these sales will result in blockbuster totals, new world records and an ever-increasing number of buyers. Last November's Christie's auction, for example, brought in SFr31m to become the most successful mixed-owner watch sale ever.