Headlines

$546,000 Watch Sale Marks First of This Model in North America

The company is choosy about who can buy its watches.

Published

8 years ago

October 13, 2016

INSTORE Staff

$546,000 Watch Sale Marks First of This Model in North America

A watch similar to this one sold for $546,000 in Winston-Salem, NC

Windsor Jewelers in Winston-Salem, NC, has sold a Patek Philippe Reference 5539G Minute Repeater/Tourbillon for $546,000 — the first sale of that model on the continent.

Rob Simon, president of Windsor, said he was honored to be able to make the sale, the Triad Business Journal reports.

He noted that the sale “could just as easily have gone to a dealer in New York, or Boston, or just about anywhere in the world.”

He added that such a transaction gives the store a bit of the “cool factor.”

The watch is white gold and has a blue enamel dial, according to the Journal.

The buyer, who has bought Patek Philippe watches before, wished to remain anonymous. He visits the region regularly because of the International Home Furnishings Market, which takes place in High Point, NC.

Windsor last year sold a Patek Philippe Ref. 5304R Minute Repeater Perpetual Calendar in Charlotte, NC, for $613,000.

The Charlotte Business Journal noted that Switzerland-based Patek Philippe is choosy about who can buy its watches.

According to the newspaper, which quoted Ben Simon, Windsor vice president, authorized retailers have to submit applications for would-be buyers of the timepieces.

Citing Simon, the Charlotte Business Journal noted: “The company takes strict measures in ensuring the watch will be held by a family for generations and not sold to a third party.”

This Third-Generation Jeweler Was Ready for Retirement. He Called Wilkerson

Retirement is never easy, especially when it means the end to a business that was founded in 1884. But for Laura and Sam Sipe, it was time to put their own needs first. They decided to close J.C. Sipe Jewelers, one of Indianapolis’ most trusted names in fine jewelry, and call Wilkerson. “Laura and I decided the conditions were right,” says Sam. Wilkerson handled every detail in their going-out-of-business sale, from marketing to manning the sales floor. “The main goal was to sell our existing inventory that’s all paid for and turn that into cash for our retirement,” says Sam. “It’s been very, very productive.” Would they recommend Wilkerson to other jewelers who want to enjoy their golden years? Absolutely! “Call Wilkerson,” says Laura. “They can help you achieve your goals so you’ll be able to move into retirement comfortably.”