A Closer Look
An exceptional, fine and rare Limited Series automatic centre seconds George Daniels wristwatch
Considered as one of the greatest watchmakers of the 20th century, Dr. George Daniels CBE struggled for more than two decades to persuade many of the Swiss watch brands that his revolutionary Co-Axial escapement – designed to run unaffected by the deterioration of its lubricant – was possibly the greatest advance in horology since Thomas Mudge invented the lever escapement over 250 years ago.
Eventually, he was proved correct and Omega adopted the Co-Axial design introducing it into select models at the Basel Fair in 1999. To celebrate this monumental deal, George, along with his apprentice Roger Smith, set about creating the Millennium wristwatch series.
The Millennium was created over a period of three years with delivery made in 1999 ahead of the new millennium. This was the first collaboration between George and Roger and each watch was painstakingly hand-finished by the two of them in what is considered as an 'English style'. With just 48 examples made in yellow gold, it is difficult to overestimate just how important these watches are. To take horology forward by a greater step than anyone else has done since Thomas Mudge in 1755 is quite simply phenomenal.
At a time when the stock of independent makers seems to be sky rocketing, the current lot offers a fantastic opportunity to own a significant part of contemporary watchmaking history.
Scroll down for a closer look at some of the exquisite details to be found in this highlight from our Fine Watches sale on 13 December.
George Daniels. An exceptional, fine and rare 18K gold Limited Series automatic centre seconds wristwatch with Co-Axial escapement
Millennium, Made in 1999
£400,000 - £600,000
This example is engine turned silver with two cartouches signed Daniels and London, eccentric gold chapter ring with black Roman numerals and black outer minute markers. At 6 there is an 18K gold subsidiary dial for calendar markers. The central hands are of Daniels unique sculpted style in 18K gold.
Each watch is finished off with a leather strap picked by Daniels. Here we have a black alligator leather stamped Daniels London topped with a hand engraved 18K gold buckle.
It is difficult to overestimate just how important the Co-Axial escapement is in the advancement of independent Horology. Designed to run unaffected by the deterioration of its lubricant it was possibly the greatest advance in horology since Thomas Mudge invented the lever escapement over 250 years ago in 1755.
Foliage decoration is hand engraved to the back and signed 'Co-Axial Escapement'. You will also see a glucydur balance and engine turned rotor - all in 18K gilt.
Also engraved to the movement is Daniels signature. The year of the production (99) also appears with the marking IJF to the case back.
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