Paul Starrett's Tiffany & Co. Patek Philippe watch from Empire State Building era heads to Phillips auction

A Tiffany & Co. signed Patek Philippe wristwatch owned by Paul Starrett, chairman of Starrett Corporation during the construction of the Empire State Building, will be auctioned by Phillips in June. The watch, produced in 1929 and delivered in November 1930, features Starrett's initials and floral scrollwork on its case, distinguishing it from other timepieces of the period. Phillips estimates it will sell for $15,000 to $30,000 at The New York Watch Auction: XIV on June 13. Starrett's grandson is consigning the piece, marking the first time any watch from his collection has been offered at auction. The watch originally retailed for about $200, with its solid gold bracelet adding $50, a significant sum during the Great Depression when a Ford Model A cost $495. Phillips deputy chairman Paul Boutros noted that larger watches like this were rare in the 1930s, as affordability drove demand for smaller sizes. The Empire State Building, completed under Starrett's oversight in 1931, remains iconic and is celebrating its 95th anniversary with new ticket packages and a Ghiradelli pop-up. The watch is currently on a global tour, with viewings in London and Hong Kong through May before a two-day preview at Phillips ahead of the sale.