SWISS INSTITUTE AND PHILLIPS TEAM UP FOR THIS YEARS’ TIMEFORART BENEFIT AUCTION
Written by Wesley Kemp
One might say there is a kindred and harmonious relationship between watchmaking and fine art. They often share a deep connection, with both emphasizing precision, craftsmanship, and aesthetic beauty. Horologists serve not only as structural craftsmen but as artists who express themselves via a mechanical creativity of measuring time and the beautiful methods of communicating it to the observer. Fine artists often convey a fascination with time, from works such as Time Unveiling Truth by Giovanni Battista Tiepolo to The Persistence of Memory by Salvador Dalí. This fascination is rooted in the ephemeral nature of time itself, which both artists and horologists attempt to capture and give form to in their unique ways. Whether through the ticking of a delicate watch mechanism or the brushstrokes on a canvas, the theme of time remains ever-present, inviting reflection and contemplation.
Blending engineering with aesthetic beauty, a timepiece is a miniature masterpiece. Like a painter, watchmakers meticulously craft intricate designs, paying attention to every detail, from the movement of gears to the elegance of dials. The skill required to assemble hundreds of tiny components into a functional, harmonious piece showcases human ingenuity. Moreover, the visual beauty of a finely crafted watch—its engraving, decoration, and balance—reflects an artistic pursuit of perfection, turning a utilitarian object into a timeless expression of elegance and craftsmanship. There is also a definitive crossover among fine art and watch collectors, who share an appreciation for the artistry, rarity, and historical significance of these intricate creations. Watches are not merely functional devices; they are vessels of heritage, emotion, and artistic endeavor.
In the spirit of this complementary relationship, Phillips and the non-profit Swiss Institute of New York have teamed up once again for this year's TimeForArt auction supporting contemporary art. The event marks the first and only watch auction benefit of its kind. The enthusiasm for 2024 is expected to equal or surpass the inaugural 2022 rendition that delivered proceeds in support of today’s most visionary artists. Seventeen works of time were showcased, raising an impressive $1.2 million. As part of The Phillips New York Watch Auction: XI, TimeForArt 2024 will feature unique timepieces from 25 distinguished watch brands. This collaboration highlights the shared values of precision and creativity that both the horology and art worlds hold dear, and it aims to bring awareness to the importance of supporting emerging artists who are shaping the cultural landscape.
Dedicated to promoting forward-thinking and experimental art-making, the Swiss Institute was founded in 1986 by Swiss patrons of New York and annually produces six major exhibitions. SI is an entirely independent, non-government-affiliated organization that hosts dozens of public programs, education workshops, and community engagement initiatives.
The Swiss Institute views the world of horology as a further way to expand its mission and philanthropic support. “Swiss Institute is grateful for the outpouring of support from the watchmaking world,” states Stefanie Hessler, Director of the Swiss Institute. “Through TimeForArt, we see the beginning of a new wave of philanthropy, where art and watch collectors are given access to one-of-a-kind collectibles.” According to Hessler, this leads to a direct artist-centric and community-driven impact, which is important to the Institute. The auction not only provides financial support for artists but also fosters a deeper understanding of the artistic process, encouraging a dialogue between the art and watchmaking communities.
Mojdeh Cutter, Director of Partnerships & TimeForArt for the Swiss Institute, views the auction as a visionary new model of philanthropy—one that “highlights the artistic connections between the worlds of art and horology,” she states. “I am looking forward to an expanded second edition with new brands joining to create unique, art-inspired timepieces.” These collaborations between watchmakers and artists are a testament to the limitless possibilities that arise when different disciplines come together, merging technical mastery with conceptual brilliance. Cutter believes that this innovative approach to philanthropy will serve as a blueprint for future initiatives that aim to connect collectors with artists in meaningful and impactful ways.
Phillips is equally honored and excited to celebrate the intersection of art and horology. The auction house is a global leader in offering dedicated expertise in the areas of Modern and Contemporary Art, Design, Photographs, Editions, Watches, and Jewels. Beyond buying and selling 20th and 21st-century works, Phillips completes its holistic approach with advised private sales and assistance with appraisals, valuations, and financial planning. This comprehensive suite of services reflects Phillips' commitment to fostering a vibrant art market, where collectors are empowered to make informed decisions and contribute to the sustainability of the arts.
Watchmaking holds a singular appreciation at Phillips. Paul Boutros, Phillips’ Deputy Chairman and Head of Watches for the Americas, clearly recognizes the connection that horological craftsmanship has to the world of fine art. “Mechanical watchmaking is without any doubt an artisanal craft, and just like fine contemporary art, the most sought-after collectors’ timepieces are the result of original designs, outstanding skill and craftsmanship, and beautiful aesthetics,” he explains. Boutros also understands the vital role in Swiss Institute's important goals of supporting artists and furthering art education. When discussing how the upcoming event showcases artists on an individual level, he points out, “Some of the TimeForArt watches were designed hand-in-hand with leading contemporary artists, who were inspired to transform their own artwork into a dial or timekeeping concept.” This leads to a final product that is uniquely furnished for the auction and vastly different from their commercial counterparts. These pieces are not just watches; they are embodiments of the artist's vision, translated into the precise language of horology. The uniqueness of these collaborations is what makes them so coveted by collectors, offering not only a beautiful timepiece but also a story, a piece of culture, and a direct connection to the creative minds behind them.
(Top L to R) Swiss Institute Exhibit, Denervaud; Swiss Institute Fountain Rooftop; 2022 TimeForArt auction at Phillips; Swiss Institute Exhibit, Pfeiffer.
The collaboration between artists and watchmakers for TimeForArt exemplifies the beauty of interdisciplinary partnerships, where each party brings its unique strengths to create something that transcends their individual mediums. The artistry of horology—combined with the expressive power of contemporary art—serves as a reminder of how different forms of creativity can come together to enrich our cultural heritage. TimeForArt is not just an auction; it is a celebration of human ingenuity and the boundless possibilities that arise when art and craftsmanship meet. As we look toward the future, it is collaborations like these that will continue to inspire, challenge, and push the boundaries of what is possible in both art and horology.
The auction is to be held as part of The Phillips New York Watch Auction: XI at Phillips, as a dedicated, live session on Saturday December 7th, at 3pm EST. The auction will also be livestreamed, allowing collectors to bid in advance or in real-time online, by phone, or in person in the auction room. -
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