1949 Triumph, Rubies and Gold Add Luster To Sept. 30 Govt. Auction Sale

TEHACHAPI, Calif. – A stylish 1949 Triumph Roadster, precious gems and valuable gold coins are among the treasures to be offered in Government Auction’s Saturday, Sept. 30 sale. The 1,266-lot offering of antiques, art and luxury watches will be available to online bidders through LiveAuctioneers.com.

For the woman who loves elegant fine jewelry, Government Auction suggests the ruby and white sapphire necklace with a total approximate weight of 161.91 carats.  Surrounded by diamonds, the vibrant main ruby gemstone is fuchsia red in color and cut in a faceted oval shape. The 18-inch-long necklace is composed of silver with gold overlay and features a flexible ribbon of 19 graduating ruby gemstones surrounded by white sapphire bezels. Bidding on this item starts at a mere $2.

Leading the luxury watch category is a previously owned stainless steel Rolex women's watch. This investment timepiece is an Oyster Perpetual with an attractive black face. It is one of several desirable Rolex watches in the auction catalog.

A true classic, the 1949 Triumph Roadster TR 2000 to be auctioned is one of the coolest cars on the road. Its features include a dickey rumble seat with Lucas "King of the Road" headlamps and triple wipers. The car is a right-hand-drive model with a 128ci (2000cc), 68hp OHV 4-cylinder engine and 3-speed, fully synchronized manual transmission. The handsome English roadster has been fully restored with black paint, saddle tan interior, black canvas convertible top, roll-up windows and wood dash. Note: The vehicle is available for pick-up only in California by the winning bidder.

In addition to the luxury items being presented, the auction house is also featuring a collection of fine gold coins. A top example is an 1853-G $1 U.S. Liberty gold coin. The coin is NGC graded as MS 63 and is sealed in plastic protector pouch. The coin is medium antique gold color and shows only few handling marks. Its obverse features Lady Liberty, while a laurel wreath and “One Dollar” appear on the reverse. Its metal content is 90% gold, 10% copper. Another noteworthy coin in the sale is an 1889-CC Morgan silver dollar.

In the antique category, an old-time favorite is a Wurlitzer Model 780-E "Wagon Wheel" jukebox with keys. Wurlitzer is the most revered name in vintage jukeboxes, known for its beautifully styled, high-quality productions. The "Wagon Wheel" is comprised of carved oak with steel fittings and, as the name implies, contains a wagon-wheel design in the center. This vintage jukebox made in 1941 has been fully restored and is in good working order.

Additional auction highlights include a coveted Louis Vuitton purse, an Alberto Vargas signed lithograph and many other luxury goods and antiques.

Government Auction’s Sunday, Sept. 30, 2012 auction event will commence at 6:30 a.m. Pacific Time/9:30 a.m. Eastern Time. For additional information on any lot in the sale, call Debbie on 661-823-1543 or e-mail info@governmentauction.com.

View the fully illustrated catalog and sign up to bid absentee or live via the Internet at www.LiveAuctioneers.com.

About Government Auction:

Government Auction is one of the most reputable jewelry and gem clearinghouse companies in the United States, with more than 20 years of experience. The Southern California-based firm works closely with agencies and individuals, including the IRS, bank and trust officers, and estate and bankruptcy trustees to liquidate confiscated assets such as fine jewelry, luxury vehicles, gold coins and artworks.

1949 Triumph Roadster TR2000. Government Auction image.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Sept. 14, 2012

‘Diamonds Speak’ In Watch Auction HQ’s Sept. 30 Auction Debut

West Coast firm specializes in top-tier jewels, timepieces for discriminating buyers

PORTLAND, Ore. – On Sept. 30, 2012, a new first-class auction resource for luxury gems, jewelry and timepieces will become available to buyers worldwide with the launch of Watch Auction HQ’s auction division. The Portland-based company was formed from the 2011 merger of a private jewelry wholesale firm and a boutique specialist in estate and privately acquired fine jewelry. Businessman Nick Dillard and a prominent jeweler/gemologist are partners in Watch Auction HQ, which deals only in fine jewelry and watches of an especially high standard, as evidenced in the selection they’ve hand-chosen for their Sept. 30 auction premiere.

“Our private clients are entertainment executives, business owners and ‘captains of industry.’ They are sophisticated buyers who expect exclusivity and a much higher level of customer support than they might receive elsewhere,” said Dillard. “For instance, we recently sold his-and-her diamond bezel bracelets to a movie industry executive and flew to Los Angeles to deliver them personally to the client’s Beverly Hills residence. We’ve tailored our auction model so it incorporates many of the white-glove extras our private clients appreciate, such as lovely cases and packaging for all goods, and complimentary Fed Ex shipment. In addition, auction bidders will have the assurance of knowing that they are dealing with a company that has already proven itself to be of utmost integrity.”

The 300-lot Sept. 30 auction titled ‘Diamonds Speak’ will be structured as a timed online auction through LiveAuctioneers.com, with additional bidding options to include phone and absentee bidding. Lots will close consecutively after the start time of 10 a.m. PST (1 p.m. EST).

Among the men’s timepieces to be offered are watches by Audemars Piguet, Omega and Rolex. Leading the ladies’ watches is a highly desirable diamond-bezel 18K gold Rolex Datejust model. Other ladies’ watches include a stunning 18K yellow gold Lucien Picard contemporary design with 48 pavé diamonds on its face, 32 diamonds on the bezel and 240 diamonds on the bracelet; and a chic 18K yellow gold Tiffany & Co. wristwatch with 134 diamonds on the bezel and diamond dial markers.

The ultimate fashion accessory that moves with ease from the country club to a formal dance is the now-classic tennis bracelet. Watch Auction HQ will offer to the highest bidder an elegant, mint-condition 14K gold tennis bracelet set with 39 diamonds weighing approximately 10 carats.

Several other bracelets are worthy of special mention. A 18K yellow gold custom design by David Freeland features a full carat of sparkling diamonds set in a row alongside a circle of gold-framed opals. Also guaranteed to turn heads is a superb Renaissance-style custom-designed bracelet of white and yellow gold set with tourmalines and both square and round diamonds – total weight: 62.2 grams. The third key lot amongst the bracelets is a hinged design of cobalt-enameled 18K yellow gold fashioned as two intricately detailed, ruby-eyed lions’ heads.

Another statement piece in the sale is an 18K yellow gold and diamond necklace designed by Gabriel Barda. Its graceful motif features gold “leaves” set with 60 round diamonds cumulatively weighing (approx.) 2 carats.

If there is a single jewel that can speak a thousand words, it is the diamond solitaire, says Nick Dillard. “When a fine diamond is cut in a special way, it shows off the jewel’s brilliance and can be the most spectacular thing.” Just such an example in the Sept. 30 sale is the marquise-cut solitaire diamond that serves as the focal point of a 14K yellow gold ring. Ten channel-set diamonds accent he impressive center diamond within a distinctive contemporary design.

Dillard said Watch Auction HQ will be introducing many custom marketing features to its online sales, as well as a private club whose members will receive an exclusive catalog containing “pieces to dazzle even the most discriminating buyer – these items will be for members’ eyes only.”

Starting with the Sept. 30 auction, there will be a gift drawing to accompany each Watch Auction HQ sale. No purchase is required. Anyone who signs up to bid or to receive either the company’s e-mails or e-catalog will automatically be entered for a chance to win a fine-jewelry item or timepiece valued at no less than $500. The Sept. 30 auction-drawing prize is a men’s 14K gold Longines vintage watch valued at $1,000.

“What we want to stress above all else is that customer service is of prime importance to us. We answer every question and respond to every phone call, e-mail and social media contact promptly and courteously. We view each customer as a long-term business partner and want to build lasting relationships with people who like to have fun and enjoy the finer things in life,” Dillard said.

For information on any item in Watch Auction HQ’s Sept. 30 “Diamonds Speak” auction, or to arrange for a phone line on auction day, call 800-890-7780 or e-mail nick@watchauctionhq.com or info@watchauctionhq.com. Visit the company’s website at www.watchauctionhq.com. View the fully illustrated catalog and sign up to bid absentee or live via the Internet on auction day at www.LiveAuctioneers.com.

To view a brief video clip previewing Watch Auction HQ’s Sept. 30 sale, click here:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=KGv9lefS7Sg&noredirect=1

CAPTION:

Ladies’ Tiffany and Co. 18K yellow gold watch with 134 diamonds on bezel, diamond markers on dial. Original Tiffany box. Est. $5,500-$7,000. WatchAuctionHQ image.

Gold Coins, Rolex Watches Join Fine Jewelry, Coin Ops At Govt. Auction, Aug. 26

TEHACHAPI, Calif. – Today’s collectors want luxury brands, but few will share details of the one consistently reliable source for their favorite finds: Government Auction. This southern California company is the largest of its kind and the only one in the United States that works closely with certain government agencies to acquire high-end assets and confiscated goods such as fine gemstones and jewelry; Rolex watches, gold coins and antiques.

On Sunday, Aug. 26, Government Auction will present a bounty of investment-grade coins, antique slot machines and premium-quality jewelry in a 1,500-lot sale with Internet live bidding through LiveAuctioneers.com. Bidding will start as low as $1 on most items.

Jewels have fascinated collectors for centuries. In describing them, the Victorian novelist George Eliot said, "These gems have life in them: their colors speak, say what words fail of." Eliot’s observations spoke of how those who love and wear jewels forge a personal connection with earth’s glittering rarities, what they symbolize and why they are so highly valued. Her comments of over a century ago seem just as valid today, since jewelry remains the premier gift choice for loved ones and those held in high esteem.

Government Auction’s Aug. 26 sale might very well have captured George Eliot’s attention, with its generous selection of jewelry and loose diamonds. A truly grand design is the 18K gold ring set with a 13-carat emerald and 2.76 carats of diamonds. This impressive ring makes a hefty statement, weighing in at 16.70 grams. Government Auction’s Chris Budge noted that the central emerald does have inclusions. “This is not uncommon with a stone of this size and color,” Budge said.

In Sunday’s sale, collectors of luxury watches can take their pick from dozens of previously owned timepieces, including seven Rolexes. A watch that is attracting considerable presale interest is a Rolex men's Oyster watch. A desirable Perpetual Datejust made of stainless steel and gold, it features a handsome black and gold face. Another fine entry is a Rolex women's Oyster watch. Also a Perpetual Datejust, this watch is crafted of stainless steel with a steel face.

A strong selection of rare gold coins will be featured in the auction. The grouping is led by a true investment piece – 1911 $10 US Indian Head gold coin. Designed by sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens, the $10 Indian Head gold coin was struck in Philadelphia and features Lady Liberty wearing a full Indian headdress. The reverse bears the image of a proud American Eagle with the motto "In God We Trust." Government Auction’s Chief Auctioneer Paul Sabesky commented, "Collectors consider this coin a ‘must-have’ because of its unique artistic design and gold content."

The auction also features a collection of antique and vintage slot machines. A beautiful example of old-time craftsmanship is the early 1900s Dewey upright slot machine. Coin-operated machines of this type are the mechanical predecessors to the electronic and pull-type slot machines seen in today’s casinos. The "Dewey" was named after naval leader Admiral George Dewey, who is best known for his victory at the Battle of Manila Bay during the Spanish-American War. The highly ornate "Dewey" is cased in oak with brass legs and trim. Its facade features an image of Admiral Dewey surmounted on a red, white and blue US shield. The machine is fully restored and working.

Additional auction highlights include an authentic, top of the line Coach brand python-skin purse; an 1880 US $10 Liberty gold coin, a 3-carat tanzanite and diamond ring; and much more.

The Sunday, Aug. 26 auction will start at 6:30 a.m. Pacific Time/9:30 a.m. Eastern Time. Absentee, phone and Internet live bidding through LiveAuctioneers.com will be available. For additional information on any lot in the sale, call Debbie on 661-823-1543 or e-mail info@governmentauction.com.

View the fully illustrated catalog and sign up to bid absentee or live via the Internet at www.LiveAuctioneers.com.

 

18K gold ring set with 13-carat emerald and 2 carats of diamonds, est. $19,450-$38,900. Government Auctions image.

About Government Auction: 
With more than 20 years of specialized experience, Government Auction is a trusted resource for the purchase of quality assets such as jewelry, gemstones, memorabilia, collectibles, art, prints, antiques and vehicles. Many of the valuables offered in Government Auction’s sales are confiscated assets that require immediate liquidation. Examples of ways in which Government Auction’s goods are obtained include bankruptcies, the IRS, estate sales, trusts, etc.

Cartier Watches, Gold Coins and Diamonds In Government Auction July 29 Sale

TEHACHAPI, Calif. – This Sunday, July 29th, Government Auction will present to bidders a cache of luxury and designer goods that includes coveted Cartier watches, diamond jewelry and rare gold coins. Many items are expected to sell for prices far below their retail value.

The event is structured as an absentee, phone and Internet auction, with Internet live bidding available through LiveAuctioneers.com. The first lot will cross the auction block at 9:30 a.m. Eastern time (6:30 a.m. local Pacific time).

Headliners in this sale were selected for their enduring and intrinsic values, with additional choice selections to suit every budget. The luxury merchandise on offer is in pristine condition, and some of the exclusive pre-owned timepieces are “satisfaction guaranteed.”

A large collection of diamond jewelry and loose diamond gemstones will be featured in this auction. The top diamond lot is a gorgeous 6.40-carat princess-cut diamond gemstone. The hefty stone is multifaceted with a cut grade of 9-excellent and has an estimated retail replacement value of $158,405.

"A loose diamond of this cut, clarity and size is a rare find in the retail environment," said auctioneer Jeff Moore. The diamond has been cataloged with a presale estimate of $79,203-$158,405.

A pre-owned classic women’s Cartier Panthere, circa 2000, is one of many deluxe Cartiers and Rolexes in Sunday’s auction. The watch is stainless steel with a white square face and Roman numerals. It is expected to sell for $2,250-$4,500.

Other quality timepieces include a men's yellow gold Rolex Perpetual Datejust President watch. This stunning example of Rolex's flawless design aesthetic features a gold face and band, and is estimated at $27,000-$54,000.

In addition to the plentiful array of luxury items, Government Auction has included an outstanding collection of gold coins. A 1908 $20 US Saint-Gaudens gold coin is also known as a “Double Eagle.” These rare coins were created by the famed sculptor Augustus Saint-Gaudens under commission from President Theodore Roosevelt. The President wanted a coin that was reminiscent of those used in Ancient Greece. The resulting Double Eagles were minted between 1907 and 1933, and are among the most collectible of all American coins. Government Auction has placed an estimate of $5,010-$10,020 on their example. Another gold coin to watch for is the 1875-CC $10 Liberty, PCGS genuine, cleaned, which is estimated at $14,100-$28,200.

For sports enthusiasts, a rare item of baseball memorabilia is going to be available: a 1966 Topps #50 Mickey Mantle baseball card. A legendary Hall of Famer, Mantle (1931-1995) is regarded as one of the most talented switch-hitters and greatest players in baseball history. He played in 20 All-Star games and 12 World Series. The card in Government Auction’s sale is graded PSM excellent-mint 6.5 and is estimated at $675-$1,350.

Additional auction highlights include a fully restored ‘Chrysler Plymouth’ kiddie pedal car, est. $2,250-$4,500, a circa-1931 Mills 5-cent War Eagle slot machine with keys, est. $5,100-$10,200; elegant Coach purses and more.

For additional information on any lot in the sale, call Debbie on 661-823-1543 or e-mail info@governmentauction.com.

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CAPTION:

14K gold ring, aquamarine and diamonds with total weight of 19.14 carats, est. $18,577-$37,154. Government Auction image.

Porsche Panamera, Rolex, Jewels And Gold Coins Lead Government Auction’s June 24 Luxury List

TEHACHAPI, Calif. – In the world of sports cars, Porsche is a brand that has come to symbolize speed, quality and design excellence. On Sunday, June 24, Government Auction will make available for immediate liquidation a treasure trove of luxury items led by a sleek 2012 Porsche Panamera.

Fully loaded and in absolutely mint condition, the pre-owned Porsche has only 225 miles on its odometer. In addition to the sexy 3.6 liter V6, 300 hp engine, some of its extras include a Bose Surround Sound audio package, heated seats, heated steering wheel, anthracite birchwood interior package, blind spot detector, park assistant, front/rear camera and Porsche keyless entry and drive system.

A magnificent example of German engineering and design, the Panamera is estimated at $90,000-$120,000, but like most other items in the auction, it has an opening-bid requirement of only $2. All lots in the sale are available for Internet live bidding through LiveAuctioneers.com. (Note: winning bidder of Porsche must arrange for pickup).

The Porsche is in dignified company with an auction selection that also includes a luxe array of fine jewelry, gold coins, art and investment-grade collectibles. Bidders can take their pick of beautifully crafted Rolex and Cartier timepieces. A handsome 1973 Rolex Oyster Perpetual Datejust stainless steel men’s watch, model #6694, Serial #3859072, features classic styling and a large face. It carries a presale estimate of $3,150-$6,300.

The perfect “go anywhere” women’s watch is the 1999 Cartier Santos stainless steel and gold watch, style #W90058C4. A link-bracelet style with secure Cartier-style clasp, the watch has a replacement value of $7,000. Government Auction is offering it with a presale estimate of $3,500-$7,000 and an opening bid of only $2.

Effortlessly elegant, a 14K white gold pendant on chain features a 3.64-carat round-cut tanzanite surrounded by 114 sparkling diamonds with a total weight of 1.40 carats. The eye-catching tanzanite center stone is purple in color and professionally evaluated as being “near flawless.” The necklace has a retail replacement value of $24,500, and its auction estimate range is $12,280-$24,559.

Putting one’s money into antique coins has become a popular hedge against inflation. A very desirable coin offered in the June 24 auction is an 1881 $5 U.S Liberty Head gold coin. Collectors call this coin the "Half Eagle", in reference to the fact that its gold content is half that of the $10 Double Eagle. The coin was first introduced in 1839 and was minted until 1907. It contains 24.18% of an ounce of gold and is the only coin to have been minted at seven US mints.

"The Half Eagle is a must-have in any coin collector’s arsenal because of the rarity of this mintage in this condition," said Government Auction’s chief auctioneer, Paul Sabesky.

High on the list of sought-after antiques and vintage collectibles is an antique Wurlitzer Model 71 phonograph jukebox features Art Deco styling and has a decorative mounted speaker emblazoned with the words “Strike up the Band.” An extremely rare survivor, the jukebox could make $20,000-$40,000 on auction day.

Other novelties to be auctioned include a 1952 Mills 5-cent high-top slot machine with bald eagle motif and three-reel, one-armed-bandit design, est. $4,050-$8,100; and a cast-iron candy store cash register. The register has been fully restored and features an ornate marquee embossed with the words “Amount Purchased.” It is expected to fetch $2,850-$5,700.

Government Auction’s June 24, 2012 sale of fine jewelry, gold coins, art and investment grade collectibles, highlighted by a 2012 Porsche Panamera, will commence at 7:30 a.m. Pacific Time/10:30 a.m. Eastern Time. Absentee, phone and Internet live bidding through LiveAuctioneers.com will be available. For additional information on any lot in the sale, call Debbie on 661-823-1543 or e-mail info@governmentauction.com.

View the fully illustrated catalog and sign up to bid absentee or live via the Internet at www.LiveAuctioneers.com.

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CAPTION:

2012 Porsche Panamera, fully loaded. Government Auction image.

New Jersey’s Sterling Associates Announces June 9 Major Fine Art & Estate Auction

Success predicted for pair of circa-1750 Qianlong covered vases

CLOSTER, N.J. – With two highly successful auctions already to their credit since launching operations in December, New Jersey estate specialists Sterling Associates will go for a trifecta on June 9 with a Major Fine Art & Estate Auction featuring quality consignments from the tri-state area. Like the previous sales, the June event will be a “hybrid” auction, which combines a gallery and online preview with absentee, phone and Internet live bidding through LiveAuctioneers.com.

The 500-lot auction will feature paintings, furniture, porcelain, sculptures, rugs, sports art and an extensive array of lighting, candelabra and accessories. There are numerous highlights in all categories, but the lot that company owner Stephen D’Atri predicts might be “the star of the sale” is the pair of circa-1750 Qianlong famille rose Chinese covered vases in the Mandarin pattern.

“These vases are truly stunning. The decoration is so heavily applied, they almost look like Meissen,” D’Atri said. The 17-inch vases were held in a private collection for more than 30 years following their purchase from a dealer on New York’s Park Avenue. The duo is estimated at $20,000-$30,000.

From the same source comes a superb 19th-century French dore and patinated bronze centerpiece. The design incorporates a pair of putti supporting a gilt faux-wicker basket from a base adorned with a ribbon-entwined garland. A piece of outstanding quality, it is expected to make $6,000-$8,000.

Another premier lot is the magnificent palace-size silk Iranian Tabriz rug from the third quarter of the 20th century. It measures 26 by 16 ft and features a palette of pinky-peach and light greens with some reds for strength. Sterling Associates has placed an estimate of $30,000-$50,000 on the textile masterpiece.

Nothing adds a finishing touch to a room quite like an elegant light fixture, and “elegant” is the right word to describe an Art Deco-style chandelier created in the manner of Edgar Brandt or Oscar Bach. With its fine filigree work and delicately suspended bell-shape forms and crystals, it embodies the flawless balance and style of fine lighting from the Gatsby era. Previously in an eastern Pennsylvania residence, it will now pass to a new owner after crossing the auction block with a $4,000-$6,000 estimate.

There is always a demand for scientific antiques to outfit a traditional study or library, so D’Atri believes there will be strong interest in a circa-1800 Continental globe on stand. The globe offered by Sterling Associates measures an impressive 22 inches in diameter and is expected to make $400-$600.

An enormous modern oil-on-canvas painting of Marilyn Monroe is illegibly signed and dated. The framed 64½- by 50¼-inch portrait is probably too adventurous for a conventional décor, D’Atri said. “It’s ultra sophisticated, very large and very cool. It’s meant to be viewed from a distance.” The portrait is estimated at $2,000-$3,000.

Eight serigraphs by the Russian-born French artist Romain de Tirtoff Erte (1892-1990) will be auctioned. A gold-framed pair of serigraphs from Erte’s “Zeus & Hera Suite” is numbered 153/300 and estimated at $3,000-$5,000.

Several sports-related artworks have been consigned, with multiple artists represented. Included in the mix are lithographs autographed by Olympic decathlon gold medal winner Bruce Jenner.

Many wonderful pieces of garden statuary will be offered, all coming from area estates. Most are life-size classical forms – some of marble, some of bronze – with a few additional works having an Asian theme.

A standout amongst the garden antiques is a circa-1800 monumental cast-iron planter embossed with Chinese characters and bas-relief floral and foliage decoration. The consignor acquired the planter in the 1970s, a move that may turn out to have been a wise investment, according to D’Atri. “Today’s buyers are paying much more for Chinese iron vessels than they did back then,” he said. The handsome tripodal vessel is estimated at $4,000-$6,000.

Between 130 and 140 figurally carved or molded Meerschaum pipes and 40-50 walking sticks are included in the sale. Each item will be auctioned individually to offer collectors their particular choice from an especially diverse selection.

The auction is rounded out by antique Asian furniture, a large grouping of antique French and German dolls; and an item that defies classification: a 19th-century vampire killing set. Contained in an attractive wood case, the set consists of a collection of weapons, including a gun, knives and stakes – presumably to drive through a vampire’s heart.

D’Atri explained that, at one time, cases containing vampire-killing paraphernalia were kept onboard some eastern European stagecoaches to provide an extra level of security for night travelers who believed in the fictitious blood-sucking bats. “The manufacturer of these sets preyed upon people’s fears, not unlike the makers of 19th-century patent medicines,” D’Atri said. He noted that a similar set sold recently at Sotheby’s for around $25,000. The example in Sterling Associates’ sale is modestly estimated at $3,000-$5,000.

Sterling Associates’ Major Fine Art & Estate Auction will be held on Saturday, June 9, starting at 12 noon Eastern Time. It is structured as a hybrid auction in which previewing is available at the physical gallery, but all bidding is exclusively absentee, by phone or live via the Internet through LiveAuctioneers.com.

“The way our auctions work, all bidding is conducted remotely, but we’re very much a permanent brick-and-mortar company where anyone can come in to inspect the goods,” said D’Atri. “It will be run exactly like a live auction, but without a live audience.”

The live gallery preview is from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., June 5-8 inclusive. The gallery is located at 70 Herbert Ave., Closter, NJ 07624. For additional information on any item in the auction, call 201-768-1140 or e-mail info@antiquenj.com. Visit Sterling Associates online at www.antiquenj.com. View the fully illustrated catalog online at www.LiveAuctioneers.com.

CAPTION:

Pair of circa-1750 Qianlong Chinese famille rose covered vases in the Mandarin pattern, est. $20,000-$30,000. Sterling Associates image.

 

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Rolex Watches, Rare Gold Coins, Fine Gems In Government Auction’s May 27 Sale

TEHACHAPI, Calif. – Southern California’s Government Auction is rolling out the red carpet for bidders at its Sunday, May 27 auction of luxury goods, led by an array of top-notch timepieces, coveted gold coins and exquisite jewels. The auction will begin at 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time (6:30 a.m. Pacific Time) and is structured as an absentee, phone and Internet auction, with Internet live bidding through LiveAuctioneers.com.

 “Anyone who has ever dreamed of owning a Rolex watch will have an excellent opportunity to fulfill that wish at our May 27 event,” said Chris Budge, of Government Auction’s Marketing department. “We will be auctioning a collection of high-end watches that includes designs by Rolex, as well as Cartier and Bvlgari. Bidding will start as low as $2 on most items.” 

One of the wristwatch highlights is Lot 9A, an impressive pre-owned 1985 Rolex men’s stainless steel and gold Model No. 15053 (est. $3,225-$4,300). Known to timepiece collectors as an Oyster Perpetual Date, the watch retains all its original parts, including the face, band and dial. It features an 18K yellow gold and stainless steel bracelet with a champagne dial and 18K yellow gold index markers. “This watch is considered a classic – a statement piece meant to be worn and enjoyed for a lifetime,” said Budge. 

Women have not been left out of the Rolex stakes by any means. Lot 17A in Government Auction’s sale is a 1997 Rolex women’s Oyster Model No. 67103, composed of stainless steel and gold. A symbol of quiet but impeccable taste, this attractive link-bracelet watch could bring $2,775-$3,700 at auction. 

For centuries, rubies have fascinated jewelry lovers. They’re found in the collections of virtually every crowned head, and their value has only increased as mines have closed. Lot 202 in the May 27 auction, a dazzling pendant-drop necklace, combines classical design with 74 carats of rubies and 5 carats of diamonds, all in a setting of lustrous 14K yellow gold. The necklace’s linked floret clusters feature 29 natural, chevron-shape rubies surrounded by diamonds. Each ruby measures approximately 9mm by 7mm. The necklace has a retail replacement value of $41,350.

Another major draw in the May 27 auction event is the select offering of gold coins. Lot 3, an 1850 $20 U.S Liberty Head gold coin known as a “Double Eagle” was minted at the height of the gold rush. Of all the gold coins minted prior to 1907, the Double Eagle had the highest gold content. The coin to be auctioned represents the first year of production for the $20 Double Eagle of this particular design, which ended its run in 1907. The coin features the Liberty head surrounded by 13 stars on the front and is stamped "Twenty D" on the reverse side of the coin.

“The $20 Double Eagle is an elusive coin and is quite rare. It is sure to attract some major coin experts and collectors,” said Paul Sabesky, Government Auction’s chief auctioneer. 

Additional numismatic highlights include an 1884CC United States Morgan silver dollar and a 1911 $2.5 U.S. Indian Head gold coin. And once acquired, where better to keep one’s valuable coins than in an antique nickel-plated Model 5 National cash register? Entered as lot 42, this rare cash register is of the tall, narrow style used in early 20th-century candy stores. It is topped by a handsome, cobalt-blue and white marquee that reads: “This Registers the amount of your Purchase.” The lot is estimated at $7,500-$15,000. 

Government Auction’s Sunday, May 27, 2012 auction event will commence at 6:30 a.m. Pacific Time/9:30 a.m. Eastern Time. For additional information on any lot in the sale, call Debbie on 661-823-1543 or e-mail info@governmentauction.com. View the fully illustrated catalog and sign up to bid absentee or live via the Internet at www.LiveAuctioneers.com. 

About Government Auction: 

Government Auction is one of the most reputable jewelry and gem clearinghouse companies in the United States, with more than 20 years of experience. The Southern California-based firm works closely with agencies and individuals, including the IRS, bank and trust officers, and estate and bankruptcy trustees to liquidate confiscated assets such as fine jewelry, luxury vehicles, gold coins and artworks. 

CAPTION: 

Rolex men's 1985 stainless steel and gold watch. Government Auction image.