A December 13 auction of Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces has been highlighted by the sale of a Patek Philippe clock, hand painted by graffiti artist CRASH.
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The striking timepiece sold for $30,000, doubling its $15,000 estimate with a 100% increase in value. All proceeds for the sale were donated to the Aids Community Research Initiative of America.
John "CRASH" Matos is a New York graffiti artist, who has seen international acclaim as a pioneer of the street art movement. His 1980 exhibition, Graffiti Art Success for America, brought the medium to the attention of the art world at New York's Fashion MODA.
CRASH famously painted five guitars for renowned collector Eric Clapton, one of which was sold at auction for $321,000 in 2004. Guitar manufacturer Fender was so enamoured with CRASH's designs, it has since released a line of 50 graffiti covered guitars, nicknamed the Crashocaster.
The Patek Philippe clock was originally made by the illustrious brand around 1960, having only recently received its CRASH makeover. It was a highlight of the exhibit Crash: Back on the Block, which was hosted by the auction house from September to October 2012. Made from silver with gilt dauphine hands, it is powered by solar cells place on top of its dome.
Paul Fraser Collectibles is currently offering a Longines Olympic Series watch for sale - a classic design from one of the world's oldest watchmakers. Sign up to our free weekly newsletter for more of the latest from across the auction world.