Music legend Elton John’s flamboyant style extends beyond his wardrobe, as evidenced by his recent auction haul. At the opening night of Christie’s “Collection of Sir Elton John: Goodbye Peachtree Road” sale, his distinctive leopard-print Rolex Daytona stole the show, setting a new world record for the model.
The ref. 116598, crafted from 18-karat gold, wasn’t just a timepiece; it was a statement piece. Debuting at the 2004 Basel Fair, it turned heads with its bold design. The leopard-print dial was a conversation starter, but the details didn’t stop there. The bezel shimmered with 36 square-cut yellow sapphires, while the watch hoods sparkled with 48 brilliant-cut diamonds. Even the numerals were adorned with diamonds, making this watch a true masterpiece of extravagance.
And despite its “zany” nature, as the passage describes, the Daytona proved its appeal. Bidding soared above estimates, with the final price landing at a jaw-dropping $176,400 – a whopping $116,000 more than its anticipated high sale.
While the Daytona stole the limelight, it wasn’t the top seller. That honor went to Banksy’s “Flower Thrower Triptych,” acquired directly by John from the artist. This 2017 work, featuring a man throwing flowers across three canvases, fetched a remarkable $1,925,500, exceeding its estimated range of $1 million to $1.5 million.
Overall, the auction’s first night served as a testament to Sir Elton John’s unique taste and discerning eye for art and collectibles. While the leopard-print Daytona might not be everyone’s cup of tea, its record-breaking sale underscores the power of personal style and its ability to captivate collectors even decades later.
