1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider by Scaglietti RM Sothebys

Ferrari Takes Centrestage at RM Sotheby’s Paris

Ferrari takes centre stage at RM Sotheby’s Paris, with rare classics and iconic models headlining Europe’s flagship collector car auction.

The 2026 auction season starts off in high gear, with two sales taking place within a week of each other on opposite sides of the Atlantic. The season will officially commence with Arizona Car Week, a North American staple that is a love letter to the automotive world. With the conclusion of the RM Sotheby’s Arizona sale on 23 January, the spotlight will shine on Paris. The host of Europe’s flagship auction for the 13th year in a row, France’s iconic City of Lights will find itself even more luminous as some of the rarest supercars in the world are showcased at Les Salles du Carrousel. The venue, a Parisian mainstay for RM Sotheby’s, is defined by its prestigious location along the banks of the Seine, only moments from Le Palais du Louvre and the shopping haven known as Triangle d’Or.

An eclectic collection of lots includes racing memorabilia, branded luggage sets and playfully designed (though completely functional) scale models of iconic vehicles made for children. The auction headliners are, of course, the supercars, including rare picks from Aston Martin and Mercedes-Benz, alongside a few truly iconic Ferraris.
The cars represent different eras of the Prancing Horse’s history and have been certified by Ferrari Classiche, the marque’s official authenticating body. We take a closer look at the Ferrari lineup that will take the stage in Paris later this month.
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<h2>1960 Ferrari 250 GT SWB California Spider by Scaglietti</h2>
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The Californian Spider SWB is a roadcar that has the spirit of a racer. It is widely considered to be the most beautiful Ferrari ever built - anyone who sees it can hardly disagree - with a sleek design that conveys elegance through simplicity. An updated version of the 250 GT California Spider, which won accolades at Le Mans and Sebring, the SWB derives its name from the body’s shorter wheelbase which was newly introduced by Ferrari in 1960. It also has a wider track than its racing cousin and the latest (for its time) iteration of the ‘short-block’ V12.
The chassis up for auction has been identified as the 3rd out of just 56 short wheelbase cars produced, and one of just 39 that were configured with the highly prized covered headlamps. Originally finished in a striking Bianco with Nero interiors, that car was repainted in a signature Ferrari red at some point in its history, ultimately being refinished with Nero exteriors and Rossa leather interiors in a period-accurate shade.
The vehicle’s provenance began in October 1960 in Alsace, near the border of France and Switzerland. It changed hands a few times across the 60s and 70s, and remained untouched until its consignor bought it in 1996. Under his care it underwent a full restoration (and took on its current palette) and was first certified by Ferrari Classiche in 2008, with the famous ‘Red Book’ authentication. It was recertified in 2025; a new ‘Red Book’ will be delivered to the new owner once it is printed. This is a true limited edition, boasting over 30 years of dedicated single-owner care, making it a legendary addition to any garage.
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<h2>1997 Ferrari F310 B</h2>
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The Ferrari F310B bears the fingerprints of several notable designers, starting with John Barnard in the UK. Departing after 10 years with the Scuderia, Barnard made the car his swansong before the design team moved back to Manarello. Ross Brawn, formerly of Benetton took over, and brought designer Rory Byrne on board.
It is believed that only nine models were ever built, with two sporting a more lightweight build - Chassis 179, up for sale, is one of those two. Originally driven by Michael Schumacher during the qualifier of the 1997 Belgian Grand Prix, the car found itself relegated to backup status as the racing legend reverted to an older chassis. It was next driven by Eddie Irvine, who qualified in Italy and then took the wheel at the Austrian Grand Prix. That third race proved to be its last as a frontliner, ending in a minor collision.
Sold off less than a year later by the marque, it was taken up by a group of collectors who exhibited it on the track at F1 Clienti Events, and was later acquired by an auto museum in Rhode Island. Future owners can consult with F1 Clienti if they want to race it at future events.
Owning an F1 car, and one that once had Michael Schumacher at the helm, is an increasingly rare opportunity and one that no serious collector should pass up.
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<h2>1997 Ferrari F50</h2>
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While there are other models with rich backstories and intriguing provenance, it’s hard to find a car that is as instantly iconic as the F50, released to mark the Prancing Horse’s 50th anniversary. Combining lightweight design with F1-calibre specs, this is the perfect blend of style and performance for diehard marque enthusiasts.
One among only 349 examples that were built, Chassis 106610 was finished in the classic Rosso Corsa with Nero seats and Rosso inserts. It has had a single owner and at the time of cataloguing, had recorded only 1,680 kilometres. The car is also considered a ‘unicorn’ due to its plethora of rare accessories, including a hardtop roof panel, a fitted luggage set, and owner’s manuals.
For lovers of the marque who are seeking out a near-pristine example, this is an incredible prize to claim.
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<h2>1967 Ferrari Dino 206 S</h2>
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This list started with one of the most beautiful Ferraris ever built, and fittingly, it concludes with another that is widely celebrated for its sleek, flowing aesthetic. The Dino 206 S was named after Enzo Ferrari’s late son, who had worked on the first version of the V6 engine that powers the car.
The Dino holds a list of other distinctions - it is the last of only 18 examples produced, one of 13 to feature Spyder bodywork by Carrozerria Sports Cars, and one of just two fitted with the most powerful iteration of the V6 - a Lucas fuel-injected Tipo 233 S that delivers a robust 270 horsepower.
Shortly after being delivered to its original owner, the car was entered into the 1000 Kilometres of Mugello, where it sported Number 28 livery. It changed ownership a few times in Italy after that before landing up in the UK in 2001. A little over a decade later, the Dino was purchased by the consigning owner and sent back to Italy for a full restoration. In 2015, it was certified with the coveted ‘Red Book’.
Sporting its original Number 28 Rosso Corsa livery, the Dino 206 S is a true collector gem.
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The 2026 auction season starts off in high gear, with two sales taking place within a week of each other on opposite sides of the Atlantic. The season will officially commence with Arizona Car Week, a North American staple that is a love letter to the automotive world. With the conclusion of the RM Sotheby’s Arizona sale on 23 January, the spotlight will shine on Paris. The host of Europe’s flagship auction for the 13th year in a row, France’s iconic City of Lights will find itself even more luminous as some of the rarest supercars in the world are showcased at Les Salles du Carrousel. The venue, a Parisian mainstay for RM Sotheby’s, is defined by its prestigious location along the banks of the Seine, only moments from Le Palais du Louvre and the shopping haven known as Triangle d’Or.

A Trio of Supercar Classics at Arizona Car Week

Experience Arizona Car Week’s premier RM Sotheby’s auction, showcasing rare supercar classics, global collectors, and world-class hospitality.

The dawn of a new year signals the start of a thrilling new collector season, which officially kicks off with Arizona Car Week. Taking place across the greater Phoenix-Scottsdale area, this grand celebration of all things automotive features events, meetups and exhibitions across several notable locations such as the Penske Racing Museum and McLaren Scottsdale. At the culmination of it all is the RM Sotheby’s Arizona sale, which will be celebrating its 28th year as the week’s premier auction. Once again, car enthusiasts from every corner of the globe will flock to the Arizona Baltimore Resort &amp; Spa - the ‘Jewel of the Desert’ - to view a rare and storied lineup of vehicles while indulging in world-class hospitality.

This is a fantastic opportunity for consignors to showcase their lots in front of a global audience and to draw attention to some unique collectible gems. Below, we take a look at three of the most prolific lots that will go up for bid in Arizona.
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<h2><a href="https://rmsothebys.com/auctions/az26/lots/r0015-1957-mercedesbenz-300-sl-roadster/" style="font-size: 16px;">1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster</a></h2>
A successor to the iconic Gullwing, the 300 SL Roadster was preceded by concerns that Mercedes might trade performance for design. Those worries were unfounded, however, as the 300 SL combined aesthetics and raw power into one head-turning package. It was among the fastest-accelerating vehicles of its time, equally at ease on the highway or gracing a red carpet arrival.
This chassis, originally commissioned in a vibrant Fire Engine Red with Crème leather interiors and a beige fabric top, was produced for US road specifications and completed in December 1957 with features that included sealed-beam headlamps, a 3.9:1 rear axle, and a Becker Mexico radio. Much of its early ownership is shrouded in mystery, with the earliest records showing up around 1981, when it was acquired by a California-based collector.
At some point in its history prior to that, the car had been given a makeover and sported its current Silver Metallic finish with both the interiors and fabric top in red. It’s a classic colour combination that perfectly highlights the elegant contours and detailing of the 300 SL’s coachwork.
The consignor, who purchased the car in 2021, submitted it to the award-winning team at RM Auto Restoration for a comprehensive rebuild. The process was only completed in 2025, with over $100,000 of work that included cosmetic touchups and detail work, along with the fitting of number-matching components including the engine, chassis and rear axle, among others.
All of the relevant documentation for the restoration work accompanies the car, along with a tool roll and two matching pieces of luggage. This is an iconic machine hailing from a time before the term ‘supercar’ was born, emphasising both the engineering prowess and design excellence of Mercedes.
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<img src="https://146414699.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414699/1957%20Mercedes-Benz%20300%20SL%20Roadster.jpg" width="1000" height="563" loading="lazy" alt="1957 Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Roadster" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px;">
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<a href="https://rmsothebys.com/auctions/az26/lots/r0002-1964-shelby-289-cobra/" style="font-size: 16px;">1964 Shelby 289 Cobra</a>
With a very rare combination of Vineyard Green and an earthy Saddle trim interior, this Cobra stands out among its contemporaries. This particular model, known as CSX 2208, was completed in England in late 1963 and then shipped off to the USA where both its engine and chassis were upgraded. Its original owner was an art collector based in Philadelphia, who only held onto it briefly before passing it along. It would change hands once more in 1968, landing in the care of a young man named Lee Weinstein. Fresh out of high school, Weinstein bought the car as a graduation gift to himself and would remain its proud owner until his passing nearly five decades later.
In 2015, the car changed hands and was put through an extensive restoration by a team of marque specialists to make it concours-worthy. The process was completed in 2019, after which the aluminium body of CSX 2208 underwent a two-year process during which it was carefully smoothed out via block-sanding and repainted in Vineyard Green along with a newly fitted Saddle trim.&nbsp;&nbsp;
CSX 2208 is accompanied by Weinstein’s notebook, which logs the work he put into maintaining and restoring the car. Available in a truly rare factory-correct palette with numbers-matching components, it is special not only because of its marque and performance specs, but the high level of care undertaken by a very long-term owner.
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<img src="https://146414699.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414699/1964%20Shelby%20289%20Cobra.jpg" width="1000" height="563" loading="lazy" alt="1964 Shelby 289 Cobra" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px;">
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<h2><a href="https://rmsothebys.com/auctions/az26/lots/r0014-1990-porsche-911-reimagined-by-singer-novato/" style="font-weight: 400;">1990 Porsche 911 Reimagined by Singer - Novato</a>&nbsp;</h2>
The Novato was a special commission completed in 2014 by Singer Vehicle Design as part of their Classic Services programme. Singer had an enviable reputation for not just restoring, but completely reimagining 911s - driven by the vision of creating the cars that Porsche itself may have produced in the modern day had they continued making the model with the latest technological and mechanical advancements.
Named after the California hometown of its commissioning owner, the Novato bears a Dolphin Grey exterior as a tribute to the marque’s classic 356 coupes. Complementing that is an understated Olive Green interior with La Marinella suede-mix inserts that shows off the level of bespoke craftsmanship Singer has put into this. Porsche’s racing legacy is further honoured by the 5-gauge instrument panel, with cream-coloured numerals and black dials - save for the central vivid orange tachometer.
The mechanics of the Novato are no less impressive, with a peek beneath the bonnet revealing a with a six-speed manual transaxle, Brembo carbon ceramic brakes with Nato Olive-finished calipers, and an Öhlins adjustable suspension system with touring-rated springs, sway bars, and bushings. In 2017, the 3.8-litre engine was upgraded to a 4-litre model by Singer.
The car was brought back to Singer’s facility in 2024 for inspection and a bit of fine tuning, resulting in $17,000 of work including the installation of new Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tires, complete servicing of the air-conditioning system and other minor adjustments to ensure optimal performance.
Only 7,123 miles have been recorded at the time of cataloguing, and complete records of servicing and factory spec sheets come with the car. A commissioned piece like this is unlikely to hit the market again in the near future, making this a rare and essential addition to any collector’s garage.
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<img src="https://146414699.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414699/1990%20Porsche%20911%20Reimagined%20by%20Singer%20-%20%E2%80%9CNovato%E2%80%9D.jpg" width="1000" height="563" loading="lazy" alt="1990 Porsche 911 Reimagined by Singer - “Novato”" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px;">
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The dawn of a new year signals the start of a thrilling new collector season, which officially kicks off with Arizona Car Week. Taking place across the greater Phoenix-Scottsdale area, this grand celebration of all things automotive features events, meetups and exhibitions across several notable locations such as the Penske Racing Museum and McLaren Scottsdale. At the culmination of it all is the RM Sotheby’s Arizona sale, which will be celebrating its 28th year as the week’s premier auction. Once again, car enthusiasts from every corner of the globe will flock to the Arizona Baltimore Resort &amp; Spa - the ‘Jewel of the Desert’ - to view a rare and storied lineup of vehicles while indulging in world-class hospitality.

Gabriela Sismann Jewelry at Sotheby’s Paris

Sotheby’s Paris hosts Gabriela Sismann’s jewellery exhibition, blending antique art with modern design through December 23

A global benchmark in the world of fine art and luxury, Sotheby’s is widely recognised for its significant impact and prestige since 1744, continuing its pursuit of excellence through extensive auctions and exhibition platforms all over the world. Setting price benchmarks, attracting top collectors and acting as a medium for cultural discourse, the auction house remains a leader in the high-end art market.

Wrapping up what has been a remarkable year for record-breaking sales, Sotheby’s concludes 2025 on a high note by partnering with Galerie Sismann for a selling exhibition of Gabriela Sismann’s unique jewellery creations. The intimate setting of Le Salon Sotheby's in Paris – 83 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré – plays host to the event, which is open to public and continues through to 23 December. A leader in the international market for antique sculpture, Galerie Sismann is recognised as one of Europe’s best references in old master works.&nbsp;
For the exhibition, Gabriela Sismann has lined up a finely curated collection of historical objects and antique art pieces, wonderfully reimagined into wearable works of art. Set into jewellery, each creation carries the imprint of its provenance and reflects the artist’s passion for history. The presentation is an invitation for collectors to acquire objects imbued with heritage and artistic innovation, surprisingly modern and unquestionably unique.
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<h2>The Artist: “History and Art are everywhere. Why not wear them ?”</h2>
Gabriela Sismann is one of the most influential figures in her field and an authority in European sculpture, having devoted her entire career to ancient art. Her exceptional eye for detail,
proportion and beauty acquired through decades of close study enabled her to transition into jewellery and transform historic fragments into singular contemporary works.
A true lover of Dostoevsky’s quote " Beauty will save the world”, Gabriela Sismann lives by this belief, trusting that in a world consumed by speed and distraction, more people will turn to art for relief. This is how she started creating jewellery – “Portable Art Works” – from antique goldsmith treasures that she converted into modern adornments.&nbsp;
Long before her work took on a wearable form, Gabriela’s passion for art was rooted in a lifetime of collecting antique objects. Drawn to historic brooches, devotional fragments, silver plates and sculptural details in gold, vermeil and patinated metal, she started to regard these as new possibilities waiting to be released into contemporary life as jewellery. Through creating “Portable Art Works”, the artist gives historic objects a second existence, reimagining them with a deeply personal eye as a tactile extension of her dialogue with the past, resulting in authentic jewellery expressions.
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<h2>A Deliberate Crossing of Cultural Boundaries</h2>
Sismann’s audience has always witnessed various worlds depicted in her work model, through the intellectual and artistic programme she has been elaborating for over 25 years. Defined by a deliberate crossing of boundaries, her technique traverses various influences – from sacred and pagan, medieval and classical, to Italian, French and Northern European – all converging in quiet dialogue as part of her creative expression. Objects displayed at her gallery pertain to different geographies and belief systems, united not only by history or symbolism but by a shared intensity of presence.
Sismann was profoundly influenced by her diverse upbringing. Born to an Argentinian father and Austrian mother and raised between the United States, Canada and Argentina, she settled in France in the early 1990s to study at the École du Louvre and La Sorbonne, following her ardent passion for Egyptology. She then turned her focus to Renaissance art and became an art historian specialising in Italian Renaissance sculpture.
With her husband, she later founded Galerie Sismann, whose discoveries now reside in leading international museum collections, including the Louvre Museum in Paris and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York.
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<h2>The Gallery</h2>
The Sismann Gallery has a rare ability to source overlooked masterpieces of early European sculpture and bring them back into the light. All their acquisitions are driven by a quest to trace neglected works, recontextualise them, discover their initial creators, and restore the original meaning of these creations. The gallery’s mission is guided by extensive knowledge and precision, turning Gabriela and Mathieu Sismann into recognised authorities on French and German Gothic sculpture and trusted advisors for clients and art enthusiasts dedicated to this niche field. From their early days at the Louvre des Antiquaires to their current address on the Quai Voltaire, the couple have built an international reputation in the field as a ‘go-to destination’ entirely devoted to European sculpture. The artworks on display at the gallery span the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, the Classical and Baroque periods, through to mid mid-18th century.
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<h2>Jewellery as Living History</h2>
The pieces on display at Sotheby’s Salon reaffirm jewellery’s enduring place within the history of art and sculpture. Their rarity rests in the survival of the artworks they carry within, each representing a portion of history that morphed into a wearable piece of jewellery.
One of the exceptional items leading the sale is a French medieval miniature of the Virgin and Child, Paris, circa 1420. Rendered in painted and gilded stucco, it is mounted today within a gilt silver torque. With a combined weight of 93.3 grams, this intimate devotional jewel is priced at USD 34,886.
Equally rare is a German Renaissance necklace adorned with a silver belt clasp from the early 17th century, decorated with sculptural hemispheres. The clasp has been reimagined as a necklace through a modern mount, retaining its powerful presence and sculptural identity. It is offered at USD 22,677.
Last but not least, a unique Italian pendant necklace centred on a painted depiction of The Last Judgment, executed on oval agate in the early 17th century, is priced at USD 26,165. A striking fusion of art and jewellery, this piece is remarkable for its depth of colour and the fact that it is set within a later gilt silver mount, suspended from a matching chain.
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<h2>Final Note</h2>
Sotheby’s exhibition-sale event in Paris perfectly embodies the artistic spirit of Gabriela Sismann and Sismann Gallery. Presenting singular pieces, the event celebrates the dialogue between historic keepsakes and jewellery creations from the contemporary world.
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A global benchmark in the world of fine art and luxury, Sotheby’s is widely recognised for its significant impact and prestige since 1744, continuing its pursuit of excellence through extensive auctions and exhibition platforms all over the world. Setting price benchmarks, attracting top collectors and acting as a medium for cultural discourse, the auction house remains a leader in the high-end art market.

Sotheby’s “White Christmas” Crosby Collection

Sotheby’s “White Christmas”: The Private Collection of Kathryn and Bing Crosby in New York

Sotheby’s showcases Bing and Kathryn Crosby’s personal collection, featuring art, memorabilia, and festive nostalgia in a special December auction.

The story of Kathryn and Bing Crosby is a Hollywood classic. The power couple enjoyed an enduring partnership in their 20-year marriage with a shared passion for entertainment, art, memorabilia and philanthropy, all of which will be wonderfully reflected in the private collection curated by Sotheby’s and offered for auction this December in New York.&nbsp;

Few voices evoke nostalgia quite like Bing Crosby’s song, White Christmas. This timeless ballad of longing, warmth and hope remains one of the most famous songs of the 20th century, symbolising the quiet joy, reflection and sentimentality of the festive season. Much the same, Sotheby’s upcoming auction offers a similar spirit, a ‘White Christmas’ moment where history, sentiment, and elegance converge in a rare collection of the Crosbys’ personal treasures.
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<h2>A Hollywood Legacy, Remembered and Revealed</h2>
In celebrating and extending the legacy of the Hollywood legend, the auction house has worked with the Crosby children to preserve and share the memories of their parents, who touched the world in countless ways, inspired generations and shaped the golden age of American entertainment.
Drawn from the Crosby family’s private holdings, the collection brings to light a remarkable ensemble of pieces amassed by the couple over decades, including fine art, furniture, jewellery and rare Fabergé creations that reflect the stars’ shared life and passions and highlight both the glamorous world that the Crosbys inhabited as well as the stories behind the collections.
The Swinging on a Star sale offers an intimate glimpse into the legacy of two Hollywood greats, with a total worth estimated at $7 million. The collection will be offered on 18 December at the Breuer Building – Sotheby’s new headquarters on New York’s Upper East Side. Timed to the festive season, a moment forever linked with Crosby’s classic charm, the auction is set to deliver both glamour and nostalgia in equal measure.
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<h2>The Passions and Pursuits of The Crosbys</h2>
At the heart of the upcoming auction is a selection of furniture from the Crosbys’ Northern California home, a Norman-style estate just outside San Francisco, recently sold for $25 million. This was where the couple raised their family and settled into a quieter pace of life as Bing began to step away from the spotlight. Among the highlights is the grand satinwood piano featured in High Society, used in the jazz number composed by Cole Porter and performed by Crosby and Louis Armstrong. Later acquired by the Crosbys for their own home, the piano now carries an estimate of $20,000 to $30,000.
It is the Fabergé pieces that marked life's biggest milestones for Bing and Kathryn Crosby, though. Kathryn preferred the artistry of the brand and chose an enamelled stickpin as her first Fabergé present from Bing Crosby, a gift which marked a lifelong passion where every special occasion for the couple was celebrated with a piece of Fabergé.
Seven lots from the Russian jeweler are part of the New York auction, including a pearl-set photograph frame in lime green enamel showing the couple in a warm embrace, a lilac pill box reminiscent of an Imperial Egg gifted by Nicholas II in 1907 and two whimsical creatures – a quartz lion and a sapphire mouse – symbolising the couple’s shared wit and deep affection for each other.
Among other personal treasures in the Crosby auction is a rare Patek Philippe dome table clock, made in gilt brass and adorned with a cloisonné enamel scene depicting a championship golf course. To commemorate Bing Crosby's charitable work, the dome table clock was presented to him by close friends to mark the 25th anniversary of the Pro-Am golf tournament established in his honour. The clock belongs to Patek Philippe’s celebrated Pendulette Dôme series, introduced in the mid-20th century, showcasing the maison’s mastery of cloisonné enamel. It carries an estimate of $15,000 to $25,000.
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<h2>Jewels of Significant Provenance</h2>
As delighted as Kathryn Crosby was with her Fabergé pieces, she was equally enamoured with and truly proud of her precious jewels, which are second to none in terms of artistry and provenance. The most historically significant entries in the Crosby auction are a pair of 18th-century diamond dress trimmings from the Russian Imperial Jewels that once belonged to Empress Catherine the Great. Crafted by Louis David Duval of Geneva – jeweller to the Empress from 1764 and a resident of St Petersburg for over three decades – these rare pieces are survivals of Imperial Russia’s decadence.
The first pair, dating to 1780, comes in the form of ribbon-tied closed flower buds, set with delicate old-cut diamonds and mounted with gold pins. It is estimated at $20,000 to $30,000. The second piece, also attributed to Duval, is shaped as a half-open flower, set in silver with gold fittings and carries an estimate of $8,000 to $12,000.
Forming part of an important assemblage of Russian state jewels, these pieces were acquired by Mr and Mrs Harry L. Crosby in 1967, bearing witness to tangible history, imperial grandeur and the Crosbys’ deep appreciation for provenance.
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<h2>About Kathryn and Bing Crosby</h2>
They met on the site of Paramount Studios in 1953 and four years later, they were married.&nbsp;
At the time, Crosby was already a box office sensation with millions of records sold, while Kathryn Grant had just arrived in California after securing a contract with Paramount.
Singer, actor, and leading figure in radio and television, Bing Crosby remains one of the most influential entertainers of the 20th century, with a career spanning over five decades during which he topped the charts 44 times, won an Academy Award for Going My Way, and starred in 104 films, including White Christmas and High Society.&nbsp;
Kathryn Crosby also enjoyed a successful career as an actress and television host, appearing in more than twenty films, including The 7th Voyage of Sinbad and Anatomy of a Murder. A regular presence on Bing’s beloved holiday specials, she later turned her focus to philanthropy and hosted the Crosby National Golf Tournament.
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<h2>Final Note</h2>
Sotheby’s New York auction celebrates not only the Crosbys’ univocal contributions to culture and entertainment but also the enduring spirit of a true Hollywood love story, reflected in the art and objects the couple cherished most.
The exhibition will be open to the public at Sotheby’s New York galleries in the Breuer building from 13-17 December, offering collectors a chance to experience these extraordinary works firsthand, before the hammer’s final fall on 18 December.
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The story of Kathryn and Bing Crosby is a Hollywood classic. The power couple enjoyed an enduring partnership in their 20-year marriage with a shared passion for entertainment, art, memorabilia and philanthropy, all of which will be wonderfully reflected in the private collection curated by Sotheby’s and offered for auction this December in New York.&nbsp;

Rare Klimt Sets New Record at Sotheby’s Auction House in New York

Sotheby’s sets a historic record in its new Breuer Building HQ as Klimt’s Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer sells for $236.4M.

A painting titled ‘Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer’, one of the lesser known works by Austrian master Gustav Klimt, has now etched its place in art history as the most expensive piece sold by Sotheby’s auction house. Closing for an extraordinary $236.4 million (inclusive of fees), this is also the most expensive work of modern art ever sold at auction and the second most expensive overall - coming second only to Da Vinci’s enigmatic Salvator Mundi.
The sale took place on 18 November at the Breuer Building, officially inaugurated as the new Sotheby’s global headquarters in Manhattan earlier this month. The evening’s sales totalled $706 million, the largest in the auction house’s history and a stellar beginning to its latest chapter. All 24 lots up for bid were part of the personal collection of Leonard A. Lauder, heir to the Estee Lauder fortune and a well-known patron of the arts. Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer was one of three extremely rare Klimts up for bid, all of which sold for a combined $384.7 million. The collection also featured pieces by Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Edvard Munch and Vincent Van Gogh, among many others. A further 30 pieces from the collection were auctioned the following day.
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<h2>A Historic Moment for Sotheby’s</h2>
With a legacy going back 281 years, Sotheby’s is one of the definitive names in the art world. The prestigious auction house has racked up some impressive sales in recent years, notably the sale of a piece by contemporary artist Jean-Michel Basquiat for $110.5 million in 2017, an early 20th century nude by Amedeo Modigliani for $157 million in 2018, and a late 19th century Monet for $110.7 million in 2019. They would be eclipsed in 2022 by an Andy Warhol portrait of Marilyn Monroe done in his signature pop art style, which fetched $195 million and became the most expensive work of modern art until this week.
Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer, which headlined the collection, was estimated to sell for roughly $150 million. After a fierce 20-minute round of bids, the hammer finally fell at $205 million and a final purchase price of $236.34 million. By the end of the evening, a new total sales record was set, marking a watershed moment for Sotheby’s and the industry as a whole.
The global art market has been witnessing a steady decline over the past 3 years, fuelled in part by a generational shift amongst art collectors and a post-pandemic slowdown in high-end vanity purchases. This week’s sales may be the start of a rebound - in the words of CEO Charles Stewart, “Our evening sales were a resounding success and send a strong signal for the art market.” That signal being that historic numbers can be achieved when items of unquestionable rarity go under the hammer.
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<h2>More than Meets the Eye</h2>
Painted sometime between 1914 and 1916, Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer depicts the daughter of Klimt’s most notable patrons - and one of Vienna’s wealthiest families - on a six-foot canvas. Draped in a Chinese-style silk robe and surrounded by various East Asian figures, the young Lederer stands out with her serene, lifelike expression and an elongated form that seems comparatively ethereal, the draped robe evoking folded butterfly wings. It is a remarkably complex piece, yet feels less dynamic and ornate than Klimt’s more recognisable works such as The Kiss and Portrait of Adele Bloch-Bauer. So how did it become his most expensive painting to date?
While Lederer is the main focus, the details surrounding her are what really make it unique. The painting is a stark departure from Klimt’s ‘Golden Period’, when he produced his most famous works in vivid gilded hues, but the use of East Asian iconography and motifs reveal deeper insights into the artist’s own personal fixations at that time.
The ornamentation on Lederer’s robe, featuring dragons rising in wavelike formations, gives the image a mythic quality that reads as a modern twist on Boticelli’s iconic Birth of Venus. Klimt has effectively immortalised Lederer, her image more symbolic than representational. Keen viewers will also notice that the amorphous shapes which seem random on first glance bear more than a passing similarity to cell structures and microbiological forms Klimt would have come across at the medical lectures he routinely attended in later life. This work is a stunning fusion of mythology and science, which gives it a deeper level of significance.&nbsp;&nbsp;
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<h2>A Past in Shadows</h2>
The painting has been through two World Wars; it came to life during the first and was almost destroyed in a fire during the second. Klimt painted it only a few years before his passing in 1918 due to complications from pneumonia. Over two decades later, it was confiscated along with several of his collected works during the annexation of Austria, and was almost lost for good.
Fortunately, after the war it was returned to Erich Lederer, the brother of the painting’s subject, and stayed in his possession until 1983. He put it back on the market and, less than two years later it found itself in Leonard A. Lauder’s personal collection, joining a few other Klimt works. Lauder would occasionally display the painting at his New York home, but it remained largely hidden from public view until his passing earlier this year at the age of 92.
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<h2>The Lauder Legacy</h2>
Leonard A. Lauder was best known as the Chairman and CEO of the Lauder cosmetic brand until he retired from the role in 1999, but his greatest legacy lies in his love of the arts. He had a decades-long association with the Whitney Museum of Art in particular, serving as a trustee and eventually the museum’s chairman and most high-profile donor. He was also a very avid collector, starting out at the age of six with Art Deco postcards.
While Lauder certainly supported American artists, his true passion was Cubism - his collection includes works from Picasso and Gris - and he also had a great love for Klimt. According to art historian Emily Braun, who worked closely with Lauder for nearly 40 years, Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer held a special place in his trove and it was set up by a small table where he used to have lunch at home.
The Lauder Collection auctioned by Sotheby’s represents just a fraction of the art that Lauder owned. Over 81 Cubist works were donated to the Metropolitan Museum of Art as part of a pledge he made in 2013, making it one of the largest museum gifts in history and a transformative moment for the celebrated institution. Additionally, individual pieces have been donated to the Whitney Museum of Art during his lifetime.
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<h2>A New Institution</h2>
The Sotheby’s sale was made all the more meaningful because of its location, at 945 Madison Avenue. Designed by Brutalist architect Marcel Breuer and also known as the Breuer Building, it was originally built to house the Whitney Museum of Art, and would be a space that Lauder grew to love.
After 50 years, the building was turned into a branch of the Metropolitan Museum of Art, operating under the name Met Breuer until its closure following the pandemic in 2020. Sotheby’s purchased the building in 2023 and, in November 2025 finally unveiled it as their new global headquarters.
The auction served as a fitting tribute to Lauder: his most prized painting selling for a record price in a building that was close to his heart, while also ushering in a shining new era for Sotheby’s.
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A painting titled ‘Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer’, one of the lesser known works by Austrian master Gustav Klimt, has now etched its place in art history as the most expensive piece sold by Sotheby’s auction house. Closing for an extraordinary $236.4 million (inclusive of fees), this is also the most expensive work of modern art ever sold at auction and the second most expensive overall - coming second only to Da Vinci’s enigmatic Salvator Mundi.

AED 70M Dubai Villa With A Spanish Finca Aesthetic

Inside AED 70M Dubai Villa With A Spanish Finca Aesthetic

An AED 70.8M Emerald Hills villa sale highlights Dubai buyers’ rising demand for warm, design-focused luxury homes built for real family living.

If Dubai’s super-prime real estate market had to be distilled into a single aesthetic, it would likely be this: clean-lined architecture, exacting symmetry, and polished marble interiors. October’s significant sale breaks all those rules, channelling the cosy, lived-in warmth of an old-world Spanish country retreat. Sold for AED 70,800,000 by Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty,&nbsp; the home is among the most valuable sold in the community this quarter. More notably, it signals a subtle shift in buyer preferences: one that’s increasingly led by design integrity, not just price per square foot.&nbsp;
The buyer of this remarkable home was represented by Senior Global Property Consultant <a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/agent/jason-barrowclough/">Jason Barrowclough</a>, while the seller was represented by Associate Director <a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/agent/agatha-magdalena/">Agatha Magdalena</a>.
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<h2>A Closer Look Inside This Uniquely Provincial Villa</h2>
At first glance, this home immediately stands apart from others in Emerald Hills. Its textured beige stucco exterior is softened by arched colonnades and rich landscaping, hinting at something slower and altogether more grounded. Spanning 14,000 square feet, the architecture draws from the traditional villas of Southern Europe, interpreted with a lighter, more contemporary hand. A mature olive tree stands at the entryway — a leafy sentinel that suggests home and permanence.
The interiors open to sun-drenched living spaces crafted entirely in a neutral colour palette. Creamy shades of ivory, sand, and earthy brown run throughout — from the basement right through to the garden. On the ground floor, the main living area is open-plan and designed for convivial family life, anchored by an elegant kitchen with a central island and exposed beams. In both form and function, the mood leans closer to an upscale modern farmhouse than a new <a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/buy/dubai/villas-for-sale/" rel="noopener">Dubai villa</a>.
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The finishes are uncompromising and built to last, with cool stone floors underfoot and masterful carpentry. Bespoke details include a sculptural staircase, spa-style bathrooms with freestanding tubs, and grand arched windows. In the basement, a wood-panelled gym and a sleek black billiards table set the tone for a more relaxed, laid-back rhythm.
The pastoral Mediterranean influence comes to life most vividly outdoors. A clear turquoise pool stretches across the garden, framed by pale stone paving, planted borders, and wide fairway views — a setting made for languid afternoons and alfresco gatherings.
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<h2>What is Driving Value in the Market Today?</h2>
Favourable macroeconomic conditions still underpin Dubai’s real estate momentum, from efficient tax structures to long-term residency reforms and a continued inflow of global wealth. In the end-user market however, it’s increasingly design and interior quality that’s compelling buyers.
Design in this context doesn’t relate only to visual impact, but to long-term livability. Layout, materiality, and craftsmanship are being scrutinised more closely, and buyers are now responding more to properties that carry a lived-in, homely quality, even when newly delivered. Experts pin this on a deeper, more fundamental shift in market demographics: “Dubai has always had a reputation as a transient city – a place where people move to work before ultimately settling somewhere else,” said Jason Barrowclough, who represented the buyer.
He added, “But that’s rapidly changing. More and more individuals are moving here to lay down long-term roots, bringing their families and businesses with them. This has fuelled demand for homes that are liveable and family-friendly: kitchens that actually get used, gardens made for gatherings, materials that age well. This villa offered just that. From the stone floors to the airy layout, it’s a home that will resonate across generations, and that’s exactly what buyers are now asking for. This was a particularly meaningful sale, and it was a pleasure to support the client in finding a home that aligned with their vision.”
For investors, this attention to detail translates directly to value. Fully renovated and furnished homes, especially those with quality carpentry, thoughtful layouts, and landscaped outdoor space, routinely command 20–25% higher sale prices on average compared to shell-and-core equivalents – especially in communities like <a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/community-guides/dubai/dubai-hills-estate/" rel="noopener">Dubai Hills Estate</a> and <a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/community-guides/dubai/al-barari/" rel="noopener">Al Barari</a>.
Agatha, who represented the seller, echoed the sentiment: “People aren’t just buying assets anymore, they’re looking for something that feels like home from the moment they walk through the door. It’s about warmth, practicality, and the sense that memories will be made here – not just capital gains. Dubai has developed at pace over the past few years, and villas often follow a predictable formula. Homes like this break that pattern — carrying a singular sense of authorship that’s increasingly important for today’s buyers.”
&nbsp;
<h2>Final Thoughts</h2>
2025 has brought no shortage of landmark sales — from the <a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/the-journal/aed-330m-villa-breaks-record-on-jumeirah-bay-island/" rel="noopener">AED 330 million Jumeirah Bay Island villa</a> to a steady stream of high-value transactions across the city. While some have stood out for their scale and price, others, like this one, are defined by character. In a market often led by big, bold statements, it’s a reminder that lasting value is often found in the thoughtful, human details, not just headline numbers.
&nbsp;
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If Dubai’s super-prime real estate market had to be distilled into a single aesthetic, it would likely be this: clean-lined architecture, exacting symmetry, and polished marble interiors. October’s significant sale breaks all those rules, channelling the cosy, lived-in warmth of an old-world Spanish country retreat. Sold for AED 70,800,000 by Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty,&nbsp; the home is among the most valuable sold in the community this quarter. More notably, it signals a subtle shift in buyer preferences: one that’s increasingly led by design integrity, not just price per square foot.&nbsp;

sothebys-concierge-auction-at-abu-dhabi-collectors-week

Sotheby’s Concierge Auction at Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week

Experience Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week, featuring Sotheby’s auctions, masterclasses, and elite global real estate showcases at St. Regis Saadiyat.

December 2 to 5. Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week. The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort.&nbsp;
As this year draws to a close, these are dates worth circling twice on the calendar, for an inaugural event that marks a cultural high point on Abu Dhabi’s arts agenda.
Sotheby’s, in partnership with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), has announced an exclusive programme of auctions, masterclasses, panel discussions, and exhibitions taking place next month in the capital. Designed as a four-day gala celebrating the art of collecting, the event reaffirms the city’s role as a beacon of innovation and a leading regional powerhouse for artistic expression and cultural depth.
This year, the programme expands further with the inclusion of Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions, bringing to Abu Dhabi a curated repertoire of the world’s finest real estate. For the first time, super prime properties will auction alongside Sotheby’s RM collector cars and Sotheby’s rare timepieces and a high jewellery number assembled over decades by one single collector.
From French Riviera private estates to an architectural masterpiece conceived by legendary designer Zaha Hadid in Graz, Austria, the residential offering at Abu Dhabi’s Collectors’ Week reinforces the growing appeal of collectable living spaces as part of a refined, global lifestyle.
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<img src="https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/143587181/hotel-aerial-shot-banner-jpg-webp.webp" width="1000" height="444" loading="lazy" alt="hotel-aerial-shot-banner-jpg-webp" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px;">
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<h2>Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: The most Prestigious Address within the French Riviera</h2>
This rare Mediterranean sanctuary at Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, French Riviera in France, commands a staggering 7,319 sq. ft. of resplendent living spaces across 0.72 acres of immaculately landscaped gardens replete with indigenous species. A most prestigious address within the French Riviera, this 1954 waterfront estate takes pride of place on the western Cap Ferrat, revealing a spectacular seafront panorama from every turn, nook and angle. Steps from Four Seasons Grand-Hôtel, the property boasts seven en-suite bedrooms, including a magnificent primary suite with all-encompassing Mediterranean panoramas and independent guest accommodations. Living areas include a 70-square-metre grand reception room and an 80-square-metre panoramic terrace that commands awe-inspiring coastal views.
A separate 75-square-metre guest apartment, with private access and outdoor space, provides customised accommodation for visitors, while outdoors, an infinity pool appears to merge with the sea, complemented by a 60-square-metre pool house, alfresco summer kitchen, and a wellness centre with hammam and sauna. Multiple terraces and secluded corners further infuse the estate with character and unmatched elegance, paving the way for quiet gatherings or contemplative retreat.
With additional staff quarters, an enclosed garage, ample secure parking, and direct access to the waterfront, this palatial home is a truly rare offering in one of the Riviera’s most distinguished enclaves.
&nbsp;
<h2>Location: Un Rêve sur le French Riviera</h2>
Words could hardly do justice to the appeal of the location where this vast estate is resting. Framed by the azure Mediterranean waters all around, the property lies moments from the charming Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat’s port and a short drive from both Monaco and Nice. This heavenly peninsula perfectly reflects what a lifestyle of quiet privilege and refined leisure truly stand for.
The celebrated Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild also sits nearby, anchoring the area’s cultural prestige and heritage. An impressive residence surrounded by nine resplendent gardens, the villa was constructed during the Belle Époque by Baroness Béatrice Ephrussi de Rothschild, whose taste for art is forever etched throughout the home, with museum-worthy collections.
The coastline invites days spent paddleboarding, sailing, or exploring secluded coves via an eleven-kilometre coastal path with fantastic Mediterranean views and <a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/the-journal/michelin-star-restaurants-dubai/" rel="noopener">Michelin-starred dining</a> at Le Cap, <a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/project/four-seasons-private-residences-difc/" rel="noopener">Four Seasons</a> or in the nearby village of Villefranche-sur-Mer.
Private yacht charters, world-class golf, and the glamour of <a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/the-journal/monaco-grand-prix/" rel="noopener">Monaco’s Grand Prix</a> are all found here, yet the peninsula remains a sanctuary of discretion and old-world poise.
The property is listed at&nbsp; $40,500,000, with bids expected at approximately $16,000,000 and a $10,000 bidder deposit required.
&nbsp;
<h3>Graz, Austria</h3>
As Austria’s second-largest city and its cultural capital, Graz is known for its UNESCO World Heritage Old Town recognition, along with Eggenberg Palace. A city replete with medieval alleyways, Renaissance courtyards, and Baroque palaces, Graz reflects centuries of cultural and architectural history.
Brought to auction as a landmark investment, this Graz property offers a rare chance to acquire a revenue-generating asset of cultural significance, designed by the late Dame Zaha Hadid, one of the most celebrated architects of this century.
Positioned in the city centre, this fully operational boutique aparthotel spans approximately 20,900 sq. ft., including 21 serviced apartments, ranging from 320 sq. ft. to 860 sq. ft. Managed by Limehome, a respected name in premium hospitality, the property delivers stable, consistent income. Three fully leased retail units and 3,200 sq. ft. of first-floor offices further complement its investment profile. The jewel in the crown is an exceptional penthouse residence, which, whether retained for private use or positioned as an exclusive short-let, carries considerable revenue potential.
This fully operational boutique aparthotel is a portfolio in motion, in a city with enduring cultural value and no foreign ownership restrictions, which makes it accessible to non-EU investors.
&nbsp;
<h3>Location Appeal</h3>
Rising from the city’s heart, Schlossberg hill offers commanding views from its historic Clock Tower, which sits at 473 metres above sea level.
Culturally, Graz is rich with treasures. The UNESCO-listed Schloss Eggenberg, a 17th-century Baroque masterpiece, awaits with its lavish staterooms and formal gardens. The city’s opera house and the annual Styriarte Festival provide a year-round calendar of classical music at its best.
Beyond the city, the Styrian countryside unfolds in a spectacle of picturesque scenery, rolling vineyards and thermal spas that offer a restorative counterpoint to city life – a reminder that in Graz, heritage and nature are never far apart.
The property is listed at $22,000,000, with bids expected at approximately $12,000,000 and a $10,000 bidder deposit required.
&nbsp;
&nbsp;
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December 2 to 5. Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week. The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort.&nbsp;

Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week: A Landmark Event for UAE’s Capital

Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week debuts on Saadiyat Island, uniting global collectors for exclusive auctions, exhibitions, and cultural experiences in the UAE capital.

With world-class infrastructure, impressive economic diversification, and a cultural offering that's as rich as it is modern, Abu Dhabi is clearly marking the next step in its rise as one of the fastest-growing regions for Art, Culture and Luxury globally. In the past few decades, culture has seen significant investment and forward-thinking action in the capital, which naturally led to an ecosystem in which creative industries are flourishing. The city’s aspirations of becoming a globally recognised centre of cultural talent and a leading regional powerhouse of creative content are obviously bearing fruit.
The city is reaffirming its cultural depth. New additions to Abu Dhabi’s increasingly diverse events calendar continue to elevate the emirate’s local and international tourism offering, and underline the capital’s role as a beacon of innovation for artistic expression and cultural vision.
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<img src="https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/143587181/Sothebys%20abu%20dhabi%20collectors%20week.jpg" width="1000" height="445" loading="lazy" alt="Sothebys abu dhabi collectors week" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px;">
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<h2>Sotheby’s Strong Footprint in Abu Dhabi: A Shared Vision</h2>
The auction house has seen strong demand from the Middle East in the past decade and UAE-based buyers have increased 25% over the past five years. As such, Sotheby’s expansion in the region is organically integrated within the current socio-economic landscape of the UAE, as Dubai and Abu Dhabi cement their status as twin magnets for global wealth and a destination for art and luxury. The auction house’s presence has been consolidated further following sovereign wealth fund ADQ’s acquisition of a minority stake in Sotheby’s in 2024. A long-term vision for both Abu Dhabi and the auction house, the investment bears witness to the significant business potential for future growth.
The UAE’s capital also has several marquee projects in the Saadiyat Cultural District, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi and the soon-to-open Guggenheim Abu Dhabi.
Saadiyat Island has quietly but firmly positioned itself as Abu Dhabi’s cultural pulse, a place where architecture, art, luxury and intellect converge. The arrival of Louvre Abu Dhabi has redefined the city’s visual and cultural identity, standing as a landmark of intent and with the opening of Zayed National Museum and the Guggenheim soon to join its shores, the island’s narrative continues an enduring interplay between heritage and modernity.
 
<h2>Inaugural Abu Dhabi’s Collectors’ Week</h2>
It is only fitting that the first Abu Dhabi’s Collectors’ Week – an event dedicated to culture, artists, investors and collectors – should include Sotheby’s at the helm of the event and Saadiyat Island as a setting that already feels central to the cultural landscape of the capital.
The auction house, in partnership with Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), has announced an exclusive set of auctions, masterclasses, panel discussions and exhibitions taking place in Abu Dhabi next month, at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort. The schedule is designed as a four-day programme that will explore the world of collecting, running from December 2 to 5. As the year nearly draws to a close, these are dates you will want to circle twice on your calendar.&nbsp;
 
<h2>A Global Audience and a Shared Passion for Collecting</h2>
Taking place during the Formula 1 weekend, Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week will see an international envoy of industry leaders, speakers and tastemakers gathering for a multi-category programme centred on exceptional pieces of provenance, ranging from fine art and timepieces to jewellery and rare automobiles.
At the heart of the week is a landmark single-owner sale, a jewellery and watch collection shaped over decades with rare, personal passion where each piece reflects an eternal devotion to beauty.
Unfolding alongside the Formula One Grand Prix – with RM Sotheby’s marking the moment through a collaboration with McLaren Racing – the auction will see a trio of competition cars, each representing a different chapter of McLaren’s racing future, offered for sale.
The timing of Collectors’ Week is well-considered. It coincides with some of the most significant events on the city’s calendar, including the Milken Institute Middle East and Africa Summit, Abu Dhabi Finance Week, and Bitcoin MENA. The result is a moment when the world’s attention turns to Abu Dhabi, with a crowd of influential guests in attendance, shaped by a common denominator: the desire to engage deeply with the art of collecting.
&nbsp;
<h2>The Collectors’ Moment</h2>
The auctions led by Sotheby’s at Abu Dhabi’s Collectors Week culminate with a live sale on December 5, where every lot tells a story defined by rarity, provenance and craftsmanship.
Among the headlines is the Desert Rose Diamond, a 31.86-carat Fancy Vivid Orangy Pink gem, believed to be the largest of its kind ever graded. Pear-shaped and ever glowing, it feels less like a stone and more like a moment captured in the warmth of desert twilight. It will make its debut at auction with an estimate of up to $7 million.
Emotion runs high on the automotive front too. The “Triple Crown” offering includes three competition chassis from McLaren’s 2026 and 2027 racing seasons: Formula 1, World Endurance Championship, and IndyCar – each embodying the speed and precision of racing at its highest level. A 2017 Pagani Zonda 760 Riviera (estimated at $10.5 million) and a rare 2010 Aston Martin One-77, one of only 77 ever made, will also be on full display.
From speed to the subtle art of horology, the Rolex “Oyster Albino” Daytona stands apart. Produced in the late '60s to early '70s, this rare reference defies the Daytona norm with a completely monochrome silver dial. Quietly radical, its estimate sits between $500,000 and $1 million.
&nbsp;
<h2>Final Note</h2>
Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week is an open invitation to explore, observe, and engage. For seasoned collectors or simply curious minds, much of the programme is dedicated to those who wish to experience something rare without any pressure to acquire. Curated exhibitions will reveal extraordinary objects seldom seen by the public, while talks and panel discussions will look beyond the surface and into the role of cultural value, legacy, and provenance in a fast-changing world.
&nbsp;
Set on an island increasingly recognised for its commitment to culture, design, and innovation, Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week marks a significant moment in the capital’s luxury calendar and indeed in the UAE’s cultural agenda too. It marries beauty with intellect, heritage with progress and craftsmanship with innovation, in a celebration of the things we choose to treasure, and why they continue to matter.
&nbsp;
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With world-class infrastructure, impressive economic diversification, and a cultural offering that's as rich as it is modern, Abu Dhabi is clearly marking the next step in its rise as one of the fastest-growing regions for Art, Culture and Luxury globally. In the past few decades, culture has seen significant investment and forward-thinking action in the capital, which naturally led to an ecosystem in which creative industries are flourishing. The city’s aspirations of becoming a globally recognised centre of cultural talent and a leading regional powerhouse of creative content are obviously bearing fruit.

george-azar-among-100-most-influential-in-private-wealth-spears-power-list

George Azar Named Among the 100 Most Influential in Private Wealth 2025 – Spear’s Power List

George Azar joins Spear’s 2025 Power List for shaping luxury real estate across Dubai, UK, Saudi Arabia, and Abu Dhabi with record-breaking impact.

In the final quarter of each year, Spear’s Magazine releases its ‘Power List’ – a definitive ranking of 100 people shaping the world of private wealth. From CEOs and private bankers to asset managers, lawyers, and family office advisers, the list is built on results and substance rather than visibility, recognising those who have moved markets in a meaningful, measurable way. Familiar names have included Bernard Arnault and Sir James Dyson – standout figures whose decisions shape markets far beyond their industries.&nbsp;
In 2025, George Azar joined that circle. As Chairman and CEO of Sotheby’s International Realty in Dubai, the UK, Saudi Arabia – and most recently, Abu Dhabi – George has helped steer regional real estate markets into previously uncharted territory. Described by Spear’s as a “<a href="https://spears500.com/adviser/22146/george-azar" rel="noopener">visionary leader</a>,” the magazine noted: “Over nearly two decades, [Azar] has become one of the most influential figures in the industry, known for redefining the standards of service, discretion and performance in the super-prime residential market”.&nbsp;
Drawing on his background in banking, Spear’s also commended his ability to “anticipate market movements and align with the lifestyle aspirations of the world’s wealthiest clientele” – a quality that, in their words, marks him out as an industry trailblazer. From building Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty into a UAE powerhouse to “supercharging” the UK business, it’s an accolade well earned.
Read on as we trace the journey behind the recognition.
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<img src="https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/143587181/George%20-%20spears%20500%20power%20list%20V3.jpg" width="1000" height="1000" loading="lazy" alt="George - spears 500 power list V3" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px;">
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<h2>2013 – Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty Opens Its Doors</h2>
In 2011 and 2012, the Dubai real estate market was still finding its footing after the 2008 financial crash. Inventory outpaced demand and confidence was tentative at best, but for those paying attention, the conditions for a comeback were already taking shape. Firm in the belief that the city was on the cusp of something bigger, <a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/agent/george-azar/" rel="noopener">George</a> acquired the franchise rights for <a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/" rel="noopener">Sotheby’s International Realty in Dubai</a> – a decisive pivot from the high-gloss world of banking. With no systems or infrastructure yet in place, the operation started from scratch, building the team, technology, and brand presence from the ground up.
Over the next decade, George would transform the office into a market-shaping force within Dubai’s prime and super prime segments, blazing the trail across resale, <a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/off-plan-projects/dubai/" rel="noopener">off-plan</a>, and – more recently – <a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/lifestyles/branded-residences/" rel="noopener">the branded residence</a> segment.
The company’s biggest inflection point came post-pandemic. In 2020 – a time of radical economic uncertainty – many firms scaled back operations to hedge against risk. Under George’s leadership, Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty did the opposite, embracing volatility as an opportunity: scaling talent and deepening developer relationships. High-net-worth buyers poured into the city, quickly pushing demand far beyond supply.
Growth accelerated year-on-year, and by 2025, the firm had amassed a growing number of industry-defining records: the <a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/the-journal/the-most-expensive-villa-sold-on-jumeirah-bay-island/" rel="noopener">most expensive home on Jumeirah Bay Island</a> (a record it broke itself – twice), the most expensive plot on <a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/community-guides/dubai/palm-jumeirah/" rel="noopener">Palm Jumeirah</a>, and exclusivity over the city’s most prestigious branded residences, including <a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/buy/dubai/property-for-sale-downtown-dubai-burj-khalifa-area-baccarat-hotel-and-residences/" rel="noopener">Baccarat</a> and <a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/buy/dubai/property-for-sale-jumeirah-four-seasons-private-residences/" rel="noopener">Four Seasons</a>.
&nbsp;
<h2>2023: The “Golden Triangle” Emerges, Bridging the UK, Saudi Arabia, Dubai</h2>
In 2023, George conceptualised a new strategic arc – one that would link the Gulf to London in a way that few had attempted at scale. Termed the “Golden Triangle,” this vision saw Sotheby’s International Realty positioned across three significant wealth corridors: Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and the United Kingdom.
Historically closed to international interest, Saudi Arabia began a new chapter in 2021 under the framework of Vision 2030. Giga-projects started to redraw the map, social reforms opened the door to a more global demographic, and for the first time, foreign interest in high-end real estate began to accelerate. Led by George, alongside Managing Partner Erick Knaider, <a href="https://sothebysrealty.sa/en" rel="noopener">Saudi Arabia Sotheby’s International Realty</a> stepped confidently into this space, supported by an expert local team and meaningful ties to the Kingdom’s most impactful developers, including Diriyah Company and Red Sea Global.&nbsp;
Exclusive sales rights to The Red Sea’s flagship developments placed the firm in a category of its own, alongside a growing portfolio of heritage-led projects in Diriyah and other culturally-rich cities.
2023 also marked a landmark move westward: the acquisition of <a href="https://sothebysrealty.co.uk/" rel="noopener">United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty</a>. Announced in early Q1, the deal was a philosophical alignment as much as a strategic one, bringing the brand back home to where Sotheby's itself first originated: London, est. 1744.&nbsp;
The move united two powerful markets, bringing further liquidity to London’s long-established super prime landscape. Today, United Kingdom Sotheby’s International Realty serves communities both in Prime Central London and the fast-growing countryside commuter belt, including Surrey and South West London, operating across eight locations. In 2024, a dedicated Family Office division was launched, providing a discreet, full-circle advisory platform across residential real estate, art, automotive, and cross-border investment.
&nbsp;
<h2>The Capital Chapter: Abu Dhabi Joins the Portfolio</h2>
With Dubai well established and the Saudi and UK markets operating at full pace, George launched <a href="https://abudhabi-sothebysrealty.ae/en" rel="noopener">Abu Dhabi Sotheby’s International Realty</a> in 2025 – a market that’s poised for significant growth. Historically more measured than its neighbouring Emirate, Abu Dhabi’s real estate market is evolving rapidly, emerging as the calmer, more culturally-rich counterpart to Dubai. "After witnessing Dubai’s tremendous economic growth over the past few years, Abu Dhabi is now primed to step into the spotlight,” said George. “The emirate has positioned itself as a key investment and financial hub, supported by the rise of family offices and visionary government planning in culture, sustainability, and infrastructure. This is a natural transition for us.”
Transaction volumes show the bigger picture. With AED 92 billion recorded year-to-date in 2025, the market has more than doubled in value over the past five years. One of Abu Dhabi Sotheby’s International Realty’s first sales set the tone: a record-breaking AED 200 million penthouse at Four Seasons Private Residences Saadiyat – the most expensive apartment ever sold in the capital. This development alone has already crossed AED 14.7 billion in sales through Abu Dhabi Sotheby’s International Realty – a sharp indicator of what’s building.
&nbsp;
<h2>Final Thoughts</h2>
Recognition in the Spear’s Power List is rarely about profile alone – it’s a reflection of strategy, consistency, and impact across markets that matter. In a sector driven by performance, George’s inclusion in 2025 is a measure of exactly that: from nurturing the right talent to knowing exactly when to expand into a new geography. It also marks the increasing presence of the Gulf in global real estate – a shift that George has undoubtedly helped accelerate.
&nbsp;
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In the final quarter of each year, Spear’s Magazine releases its ‘Power List’ – a definitive ranking of 100 people shaping the world of private wealth. From CEOs and private bankers to asset managers, lawyers, and family office advisers, the list is built on results and substance rather than visibility, recognising those who have moved markets in a meaningful, measurable way. Familiar names have included Bernard Arnault and Sir James Dyson – standout figures whose decisions shape markets far beyond their industries.&nbsp;

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Emirates Hills is among the most affluent neighbourhoods in Dubai. This magnificent development realized by Emaar Properties PJSC is commonly called the "Beverly Hills of Dubai".

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