06 Dec NEWS.MC MERGED ART COMPANIES HAVE HIGH HOPES FOR MONACO
As Monaco becomes a leading centre for art and auctions, one strategic partnership is riding the wave successfully, Wannenes – Art Contact.
The two companies are now holding regular sales in Monaco, offering collector watches and fine jewels auctions twice a year, in July and December.
It is no accident that auctions this week take place shortly before Christmas, as many pieces may be bought as very special – and usually very pricey – gifts. This year’s Monaco jewellery sale is on Wednesday, December 8, at Cafe de Paris starting at 15:00 and 18:00.
At a sale in July 2019 a pair of ear pendants sold for 2.9 million euros, but many pieces sell for much more modest prices.
Teresa Scarlata, who specialises in jewellery and splits her time between Monaco and Milan, said that the best sellers are at the top end of the price range, but she doesn’t always look only at the value: “There are many pieces that are not so valuable, but the workmanship is fantastic.”
Her view is shared by Michele Rosa, one of the company’s watch experts, whose family has a long tradition in art and auctions. This year, there are several interesting Rolex and Patek Philippe watches in the sale, which takes place on Thursday, December 9, at the Cafe de Paris, starting at 14:30. It’s not all about top-end pieces, he said.
“We like to attract new clients to invest in watches,” he said.
Certainly, the company’s strategy is long-term: “We have a lot of competitors in Monaco, which is becoming a world centre for watches,” he said.
Viewing of jewellery and watches continues in the Salon Bellevue of the Cafe de Paris on Tuesday, December 7, from 10:00 until 19:00 and again on Wednesday, December 8, from 10:00 until midday.
PHOTOS Top: Michele Rosa and Teresa Scarlata, Below: This selection of watches and precious stones on sale this week by Wannenes – Art Contact is valued at about one million euros Ian Brodie
ARTICLE by Ian Brodie Editor-in-Chief NEWS MC
