Experience the Apex of Watch Collecting: A Journey Through Rolliefest 2025

The Unveiling of Rolliefest 2025: From Spectator to Participant

It wasn't long ago that I, like many others, found myself in awe of Hodinkee's captivating photo reports on events such as the inaugural "Rolliefest," an exclusive gathering of vintage Rolex enthusiasts in New York City. The idea of such a remarkable collection of timepieces, all in one place, seemed almost surreal and unattainable. Yet, fast forward three years into my tenure at "Big H," and I had the privilege of attending my second Rolliefest.

Beyond Rolex: A Diverse Showcase of Horological Masterpieces

Contrary to its name, Rolliefest is far from being exclusively about Rolex. Within the first hour of the event, I was struck by the incredible diversity of watches on display. Alongside numerous F.P.Journe creations, a pair of Roger Smiths, and an assortment of exquisite Patek Philippes, there were also many Longines and Universal Genève pieces. Every conceivable brand and style of timepiece was present, reflecting the evolving tastes and sentiments within the collector community. What remains constant, however, is the unwavering passion and deep bonds of friendship that unite attendees, emphasizing that Rolliefest is truly a brand-agnostic celebration of horology.

The Evolution of an Exclusive Gathering: Setting New Standards in Luxury Events

Geoff Hess, the Global Head of Watches at Sotheby's and the mastermind behind Rolliefest, consistently strives to surpass previous events. In 2023, the festival featured a grand dinner at the American Museum of Natural History, a brunch and "show-and-tell" at the Rainbow Room in Rockefeller Center, and a cocktail reception at Manhattan Motorcars Porsche. For 2025, the ambition was even greater.

A Grand Celebration: Venues That Inspire Awe

The 2025 Rolliefest spanned two extraordinary days, beginning with an elegant dinner set against the backdrop of the Temple of Dendur at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The following day, guests enjoyed brunch and a watch gathering on the 102nd floor of One World Observatory, culminating in a farewell cocktail party at the Winter Garden within the newly reopened Waldorf Astoria Residences. These magnificent settings underscored the exclusivity and grandeur of the event.

A Community United by Passion: The Enduring Spirit of Rolliefest

What truly sets Rolliefest apart is its ability to attract a growing number of collectors from diverse backgrounds, fostering a close-knit community of friends and long-standing acquaintances. While this report cannot capture every exceptional timepiece, such as a rare Daytona ref. 6270 that remained out of sight, it offers a glimpse into the event's incredible atmosphere. For privacy and security, specific names are largely omitted, but the sheer volume and variety of watches on display convey the profound passion shared by all.

Day 1: A Gala Evening Amidst Cultural Grandeur

The first night of Rolliefest 2025 unfolded as a spectacular "Met Gala of Watches" at the Metropolitan Museum of Art. Attendees were sworn to secrecy regarding the venue until after the event, ensuring security and an element of surprise. The evening commenced with a sophisticated cocktail hour in the museum's main entry, setting a tone of elegance and anticipation.

The Arrival of Iconic Timepieces and Distinguished Guests

Among the distinguished guests was Roy Davidoff, who, embracing the "Rollie" spirit, showcased two Daytonas, including one with a unique Khanjar caseback. The event also featured a beautifully aged ref. 6541 Milgauss. Adam Victor proudly displayed a remarkable Patek Philippe ref. 1415HU in pink, complete with a matching Patek Philippe-signed bracelet. The host, Geoff Hess, was joined by Ben Clymer, attending his first Rolliefest, and many others, including Eneuri Acosta with his burl wood Rolex Day-Date and Erika Ratini (WatchMissGMT) with her Patek ref. 3800. The evening culminated in a speech by Geoff Hess, celebrating the bonds of community and friendship that define Rolliefest.

Day 2: Elevated Views and Exquisite Timepieces

The second day began with a gathering at One World Observatory, where attendees were treated to breathtaking views from the 102nd floor. Access was granted via specially designed necklaces created by Katrina Vrakas. Amidst the stunning panoramic backdrop, discussions about rare watches quickly ensued. Phil Toledano (Mister Enthusiast) showcased a Patek Philippe ref. 3619, while Mike Nouveau (King of WatchTok) presented an array of horological treasures, including a Cartier-signed Patek Philippe Ellipse. Mark Rawlins displayed an Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Perpetual Calendar "Tuscan" dial in platinum ref. 25820PT, and a Lange 1 with a Mother of Pearl dial also captured attention. The event offered a platform for enthusiasts to admire a diverse range of watches, from military Omega Seamasters to unique Longines models, culminating in a display of watches on a large communal table.

Day 2: A Diverse Display and Notable Finds

The communal table at One World Observatory rapidly filled with an extraordinary assortment of watches. Highlights included a First Series Patek Philippe ref. 3940 and a Heuer for Abercrombie & Fitch Seafarer. An unexpected highlight was an Alain Silberstein Krono Medio Saphir, while "Old Watch Lady" sported a refined stack of Jaeger-LeCoultre and Midas watches. A Cartier Baignoire added a touch of elegance, and Tariq Malik presented a truly incredible Rolex ref. 3548, complete with its original box, military records, and other historical documents. Other notable pieces included a Hodinkee-signed Tudor Black Bay 58, a Tiffany-signed Patek ref. 5170P, and two Roger Smith Series 1 watches. This rich display underscored the diverse and passionate collecting interests present.

Day 2: Chronicles of Rarity and Craftsmanship

The day continued with a showcase of exceptionally rare and historically significant timepieces. An IWC ref. 325 Portugieser, believed to have sold at Phillips in 2016, garnered significant interest due to its oversized 42mm stainless steel case and black dial with Breguet numerals. A tropical Audemars Piguet ref. 5402 "C Series" captivated with its unique patina, while a two-tone dialed Vacheron Constantin ref. 4178, featuring astonishing oxidation on its case, was deemed a top five highlight. Additionally, a Longines Sommatore Centrale with a central minute counter, and a Universal Uni-compax chronograph (including the author's own) were among the impressive chronographs presented. Tyler Vanes of Craft + Tailored showcased a Wyler chronograph he had long sought, and Raymond Milnarik of Oliver and Clarke displayed a yellow gold Movado M90 with Breguet numerals. Ken Jacobs of "Wanna Buy A Watch?" brought a touch of Oysterquartz, adding to the day's diverse offerings. The sheer volume and quality of watches prompted many to continue their search for hidden horological gems.

Day 2: The Grand Finale at Winter Garden

The final event of Rolliefest 2025 took place at the Winter Garden in the Waldorf Astoria Residences. Roy Davidoff showcased a late "Ed White" Omega Speedmaster with a blue "soleil" dial, and James Lamdin sported a black galvanic gilt dial Rolex ref. 6238 "Pre-Daytona." The party then moved to the 25th-floor balcony, offering stunning views of Park Avenue. Adam Victor, consistently impressing, presented his 1970 Breguet complete calendar chronograph with a Valjoux 88 movement. Other exquisite pieces included a tropical Eberhard Contograf and a yellow gold Rolex Pre-Daytona ref. 6238. Bernhard Bulang, the lucky winner of a Tudor Black Bay 54 engraved with the Rolliefest logo, proudly wore his new acquisition Gianni Agnelli-style. The evening concluded with a display of remarkable Daytonas, including a sodalite and diamond dial white gold Rolex Daytona ref. 116519 and the rare Rolex Daytona ref. 6263 "Desert Eagle," featuring the "Quraysh Hawk" with the UAE coat of arms, symbolizing a truly grand conclusion to Rolliefest 2025.