In Dialogue with History: Gabriela Sismann at Sotheby’s Paris

Sotheby’s Paris showcases Gabriela Sismann’s jewellery, blending antique art with modern design in a festive exhibition.

Since 1744, Sotheby’s has set the pace for the world of fine art and luxury. Its auctions and exhibitions have shaped international collecting, established price records and provided a stage for cultural exchange. With a global reach and unquestionable commitment to quality, the auction house continues to define the upper tier of the art market.

<img src="https://146414713.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414713/406.jpg" width="2034" height="2042" loading="lazy" alt="406" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 2034px;">
<h2>A Paris Exhibition of Singular Vision</h2>
Closing a year marked by exceptional results, Sotheby’s ends 2025 with a collaboration that celebrates both heritage and imagination. In partnership with Galerie Sismann, the auction house presents a selling exhibition of jewellery by Gabriela Sismann, held in the Le Salon Sotheby’s at 83 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré. Open to the public through 23 December, the presentation brings together two authorities in their fields –&nbsp; Galerie Sismann, long regarded as one of Europe’s leading specialists in antique sculpture and Sismann’s artistry, evident across an entire collection of symbolic jewellery.
For this exhibition, Gabriela Sismann has assembled a collection of historical objects and antique works of art, each reinterpreted as contemporary jewellery. Her creations retain the character of their origins while offering a modern sensibility, resulting in works that are both unique and striking. Collectors are invited to discover jewellery that carries its provenance with pride and celebrates an artist’s ability to transform history into something aesthetically wearable.
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<h2>The Artist and Her Vision</h2>
“History and art are everywhere. Why not wear them?” – is a conviction on which Gabriela Sismann has built her career.&nbsp;
Long regarded as a leading authority on European sculpture, she has spent decades immersed in the study of ancient art. That discipline shaped her instinct for proportion, detail and harmony, and enabled her to shift from the gallery to the jeweller’s bench, where she began transforming historic fragments into contemporary works.
Guided by Dostoevsky’s belief that beauty will save the world, Sismann sees art as a refuge in a fast and distracted age. Her jewellery grew from that desire to bring art into daily life. She began with antique goldsmith’s pieces, reworking them into what she calls “Portable Art Works” – objects that retain their origins yet gain a new purpose. Her lifelong habit of collecting fed this evolution. Drawn to devotional fragments, silver plates, brooches and sculptural details in gold, vermeil and patinated metal, she came to view them as elements waiting to be repurposed and reawaken.. In reconceptualising them, she gives these objects a second lease of life. Each jewel becomes a continuation of her dialogue with the past, an expression shaped by scholarship and vision.
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<h2>Crossing Cultural Boundaries</h2>
Sismann’s work has always moved across worlds. For more than twenty-five years, her artistic programme has brought together sacred and pagan motifs, medieval and classical forms and influences from Italy, France and Northern Europe. Through her talent and vision, these threads meet and reveal shared sensibilities that transcend geography and borders. The objects she selects for her gallery carry a depth of presence that joins them more powerfully than any single tradition.
Her own background reflects this diversity. Born to an Argentinian father and Austrian mother, and raised in the United States, Canada and Argentina, she settled in France in the early 1990s to study at the École du Louvre and the Sorbonne, initially drawn by a deep interest in Egyptology. She later turned to Renaissance art, becoming a historian specialising in Italian sculpture.
Together with her husband, she founded Galerie Sismann, whose discoveries now form part of major museum collections, including the Louvre in Paris and the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York. Her jewellery, like her scholarship, carries forward a lifetime spent tracing beauty across cultures and centuries.
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<h2>A Gallery Built on Discovery</h2>
The Sismann Gallery has long been distinguished for its instinctive approach to early European sculpture. Its strength lies in uncovering works that time has obscured, then restoring them to clarity through careful attribution. Every acquisition begins with a search for fragments of the past that deserve renewed attention. Gabriela and Mathieu Sismann pursue these forgotten pieces with a determination to identify their creators, understand their original purpose, revive their meaning and restore the visual language of their age.
This pursuit has made the gallery a recognised authority on French and German Gothic sculpture and a trusted guide for collectors working within this niche field. From their early days at the Louvre des Antiquaires to their current space on the Quai Voltaire, the Sismanns have built a destination devoted to European sculpture in all its forms. Their holdings range from the Middle Ages to the mid-eighteenth century, encompassing the Renaissance, Classical and Baroque periods. What unites these works is not so much time but the clarity of vision with which they have been chosen: each piece has a singular story waiting to be rediscovered.
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<h2>History Reframed in Jewellery</h2>
At Sotheby’s Salon, this exhibition becomes a wearable expression where each piece safeguards the artwork within it, allowing history to be carried as closely as a personal memory. Their rarity lies in the survival of the images, materials and ideas contained within.
Leading the selection is a French medieval miniature of the Virgin and Child, Paris, circa 1420. Fashioned in painted and gilded stucco and now set within a gilt silver torque, it weighs 93.3 grams and is offered at USD 34,886.&nbsp;
Another highlight is represented by a German Renaissance necklace centred on a silver belt clasp from the early seventeenth century, decorated with sculptural hemispheres and reimagined through a modern mount. It is priced at USD 22,677.
Completing the ensemble is an Italian pendant necklace featuring a painted Last Judgment on oval agate, created in the early seventeenth century and later framed in gilt silver. Suspended from a matching chain, it is valued at USD 26,165.
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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Since 1744, Sotheby’s has set the pace for the world of fine art and luxury. Its auctions and exhibitions have shaped international collecting, established price records and provided a stage for cultural exchange. With a global reach and unquestionable commitment to quality, the auction house continues to define the upper tier of the art market.

Arizona Car Week Preview: Three Collectors’ Favourites to Watch

Arizona Car Week’s RM Sotheby’s auction features rare supercar classics, global collectors, and unmatched hospitality.

The start of a new year marks the beginning of an exciting season for automotive collectors, and Arizona Car Week remains one of its most anticipated milestones. Spread across the Phoenix–Scottsdale area, the week brings together a series of events, exhibitions, and gatherings at key venues including the Penske Racing Museum and McLaren Scottsdale. Its highlight is the RM Sotheby’s Arizona sale, now in its 28th year, hosted at the Arizona Biltmore Resort &amp; Spa. Known as the ‘Jewel of the Desert’, this iconic landmark will welcome enthusiasts from around the world to explore an exceptional lineup of collectible cars.

For consignors, the week offers an ideal platform to present standout vehicles to a global audience, attracting attention from seasoned collectors and new buyers alike. Below is a closer look at three of the most noteworthy consignments heading to auction 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>
<img src="https://146414713.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414713/1957%20Mercedes-Benz%20300_SL_Roadster.jpg" width="1000" height="750" loading="lazy" alt="1957 Mercedes-Benz 300_SL_Roadster" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px;">
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Successor to the legendary Gullwing, the 300 SL Roadster proved that Mercedes-Benz could blend style and performance without compromise. One of the quickest-accelerating cars of its era, it was equally suited to grand touring and glamorous occasions, becoming a symbol of mid-century automotive excellence.
This particular chassis was initially finished in Fire Engine Red with Crème leather and a beige fabric top. Delivered in December 1957 for the US market, it was equipped with sealed-beam headlights, a 3.89:1 rear axle, and a Becker Mexico radio. Early records remain sparse until 1981, when it appeared in the collection of a California enthusiast. At an earlier stage, the car was refinished in Silver Metallic with red upholstery and a matching red soft top—a timeless combination that is a perfect fit for the 300 SL and accentuates the flowing lines of its bodywork.
The current owner acquired the car in 2021 and entrusted it to RM Auto Restoration’s award-winning team for a full mechanical and cosmetic renewal. Completed in 2025 at a cost exceeding $100,000, the work included detailed refinishing and the installation of number-matching components such as the engine, chassis, and rear axle. Documentation for all work accompanies the car, as do a tool roll and two coordinated luggage pieces. As a model that predates the modern “supercar” era, the 300 SL Roadster remains an enduring testament to Mercedes-Benz’s engineering ambition.
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<h2><a href="https://rmsothebys.com/auctions/az26/lots/r0002-1964-shelby-289-cobra/" style="font-size: 16px;">1964 Shelby 289 Cobra</a></h2>
<img src="https://146414713.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414713/1964%20Shelby%20289_Cobra.jpg" width="1000" height="750" loading="lazy" alt="1964 Shelby 289_Cobra" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px;">
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Presented in a rare Vineyard Green with Saddle-coloured interior, this Shelby 289 Cobra offers both originality and provenance. Known by its chassis number, CSX 2208, the car was completed in England in late 1963 before being shipped to the US, where both its engine and chassis received factory-approved upgrades. Its first owner, a Philadelphia-based art collector, kept it only briefly before passing it on. In 1968, it was purchased by a recent high-school graduate, Lee Weinstein, who would remain its custodian for nearly fifty years.
After changing hands in 2015, CSX 2208 underwent a meticulous multi-year restoration led by marque specialists, reaching completion in 2019. Its aluminium body was smoothed by hand through extensive block-sanding before being resprayed in its original Vineyard Green, complemented by a newly fitted Saddle interior.
Weinstein’s handwritten notebook, detailing decades of maintenance and care, accompanies the car. With numbers-matching components and a rarely seen factory-correct colour scheme, CSX 2208 is not only significant for its performance heritage but also for the extraordinary stewardship it received from a devoted long-term owner.
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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></h2>
<img src="https://146414713.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414713/1990%20Porsche%20911%20Reimagined%20by_Singer_Novato.jpg" width="1000" height="750" loading="lazy" alt="1990 Porsche 911 Reimagined by_Singer_Novato" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px;">
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The Novato is a bespoke commission completed by Singer Vehicle Design in 2014 as part of its celebrated Classic Services programme. Known for redefining what a modern air-cooled 911 could be, Singer blends contemporary engineering with Porsche’s heritage, crafting cars that represent the brand’s spirit as if it had continued developing the classic 911 into the present day.
Named after the commissioning owner’s hometown in California, the Novato features a Dolphin Grey exterior that nods to the heyday of the iconic Porsche 356 models. The interior, finished in Olive Green with La Marinella suede-mix inserts, highlights Singer’s commitment to tailored craftsmanship. Porsche’s racing DNA appears in the five-dial instrument cluster, with cream numerals and black dials contrasted by the vivid orange central tachometer.
Mechanically, the car is equally compelling. Beneath the rear deck lies a six-speed manual transaxle paired with Brembo carbon-ceramic brakes with Nato Olive calipers, and an Öhlins adjustable suspension tuned for touring. Originally fitted with a 3.8-litre flat-six, the Novato received an upgrade to a 4-litre engine from Singer in 2017.
In 2024, the car returned to Singer for inspection and fine-tuning, receiving $17,000 worth of work including new Michelin Pilot Sport 4S tyres, full servicing of the air-conditioning system, and additional refinements for optimal performance.
Showing just 7,123 miles at the time of cataloguing and accompanied by full factory and service records, the Novato represents a rare opportunity to acquire a commission unlikely to appear on the market again soon. It is an exceptional centrepiece for any distinguished collection.
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The start of a new year marks the beginning of an exciting season for automotive collectors, and Arizona Car Week remains one of its most anticipated milestones. Spread across the Phoenix–Scottsdale area, the week brings together a series of events, exhibitions, and gatherings at key venues including the Penske Racing Museum and McLaren Scottsdale. Its highlight is the RM Sotheby’s Arizona sale, now in its 28th year, hosted at the Arizona Biltmore Resort &amp; Spa. Known as the ‘Jewel of the Desert’, this iconic landmark will welcome enthusiasts from around the world to explore an exceptional lineup of collectible cars.

Sotheby’s Makes History: A Landmark Evening of Modern Art History in New York

Sotheby’s New York sets a historic record with a $706M modern art auction, led by Klimt’s $236M masterpiece and the iconic Leonard Lauder Collection.

November 2025 has been a milestone month in the history of Sotheby’s New York. One of the world’s oldest auction houses, this storied brand has recently relocated to the newly restored Breuer Building, previously home to the Whitney Museum of Art – on the prestigious Museum Mile in Manhattan’s Upper East Side.&nbsp;
But that was just the start of things to come in what has been a solid fourth quarter. In a single evening, the company achieved its highest auction total to date, setting a new record with an extraordinary $706 million in sales. The event witnessed a cascade of broken records, including the second-highest art sale ever recorded, and saw exceptional works from some of the most celebrated names in modern and contemporary art find new owners. Continue reading for a full overview of this remarkable moment in Sotheby’s New York’s history.
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<img src="https://146414713.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414713/download%20(5).jpg" width="385" height="533" loading="lazy" alt="download (5)" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 385px;">
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<h2>A Collector Who Shaped Modern Art History</h2>
At the heart of the record-setting auction was an exceptional 54-piece collection from the late Leonard A. Lauder – heir to the Estée Lauder Companies cosmetics empire. The sale was divided into two sessions, with 24 works presented on Tuesday, 18 November, and the remaining 30 offered the following morning, to much interest. Lauder, a dedicated collector throughout his lifetime, built an esteemed legacy by acquiring significant works from artistic giants including Klimt, Munch and Matisse – a passion he continued to pursue until his passing in June 2025.
Representing a rare and exceptional assembly of major 20th-century artworks, the Leonard A. Lauder Collection stood as a true tribute to modern art. It offered a remarkable showcase of creativity, innovation and artistic influence, capturing the spirit and lasting contribution of some of the era’s most pivotal figures.
After Lauder’s passing, Sotheby’s was selected to oversee the auction of his collection – a fitting decision reflecting his close association with The Whitney Museum and the Breuer Building itself, where he long served as a trustee.
Lauder’s passion for art began at an early age – starting at just six years old with a collection of postcards, several of which were exhibited at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston in 2012. Over the decades, his collection grew to extraordinary proportions, eventually enabling him to pledge his prized Cubist works to the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York City – a donation valued at more than $1 billion.
The Sotheby’s auction provided a rare opportunity to view the scope of Lauder’s remarkable collection, which included works by Gustav Klimt, Henri Matisse and the famed Spanish Cubist Pablo Picasso. Notable pieces by Dutch master Vincent van Gogh and Norwegian expressionist Edvard Munch – best known for The Scream – were also featured. However, the undisputed highlight of the evening was the full-length portrait of a young Elisabeth Lederer, daughter of Klimt’s most significant patrons, meticulously created over the course of three years in the mid-1910s.
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<h2>Redefining the Limits of Modern Art Sales</h2>
The landmark November auction marked Sotheby’s highest-ever total for a single evening, achieving an astonishing $706 million in sales. A major contributor to the evening’s staggering total was Gustav Klimt’s Portrait of Elisabeth Lederer (1914–16), which achieved an extraordinary $236.4 million following a 19-minute bidding duel – making it the most expensive work ever sold by Sotheby’s. This sale surpassed Klimt’s previous record of $183.8 million, paid in 2013 by Russian businessman Dmitry Rybolovlev for Wasserschlangen II, and now ranks as the second-highest price ever paid for a work of art, trailing only Leonardo da Vinci’s Salvator Mundi.&nbsp;
Bidding had opened at $130 million, with expectations around $150 million, yet the final price underscored Klimt’s exceptional status in the top-tier art market, with the winning bid ultimately reaching a $205 million hammer price, before additional fees.
The painting carries a remarkable and complex history. During World War II, it was among a collection seized by Nazi officials in Vienna. In what turned out to be something of a blessing in disguise, the work narrowly escaped destruction by fire, having been separated from other paintings that were lost – a fate influenced by its depiction of a Jewish subject.
Chairman of Sotheby’s Europe, Helena Newman, was quoted as saying: “To see Gustav Klimt’s exquisite portrait of Elisabeth Lederer set a new auction record for the artist is thrilling in itself; to see it become the most valuable work ever sold at Sotheby’s is nothing short of sensational. Klimt is one of those rare artists whose magic is as powerful as it is universal.”
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<h2>Additional Masterpieces That Defined the Evening</h2>
The evening also showcased an impressive selection of other high-value works, all 24 pieces finding new owners. Among them were two additional Klimt paintings, pushing the total for the Austrian master’s works to a remarkable $384.7 million. His 1908 painting Blumenwiese (Blooming Meadow) sold for $86 million, while Waldhag bei Unterach am Attersee (Forest Slope in Unterach on the Attersee) fetched $68.3 million, underscoring the Viennese icons' continued importance to the market.
In an evening that celebrated some of the most esteemed figures in the art world, Edvard Munch’s Sankthannatt commanded $35.1 million following a seven-minute contest among three bidders. Meanwhile, Agnes Martin’s The Garden sold for $17.6 million to private dealer Philippe Ségalot, who triumphed over two other competitors in a 10-minute bidding battle.
A drawing by one of modern art’s most iconic figures, Vincent van Gogh, Le Semeur dans un champ de blé au soleil couchant (1888), achieved $9.43 million, while two bronze sculptures by Henri Matisse each sold for $16.7 million. Other highlights from the evening – outside the Lauder collection – included Maurizio Cattelan’s infamous gold toilet, which changed hands for $12.1 million.
The extraordinary results offered a positive turn for a market that has faced a challenging period in recent years, influenced by geopolitical uncertainty and a limited supply of premier works. Yet this landmark $706 million auction suggests that the high-end art market is regaining momentum, hinting at a brighter outlook on the horizon.
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November 2025 has been a milestone month in the history of Sotheby’s New York. One of the world’s oldest auction houses, this storied brand has recently relocated to the newly restored Breuer Building, previously home to the Whitney Museum of Art – on the prestigious Museum Mile in Manhattan’s Upper East Side.&nbsp;

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/hub/143587181/hubfs/George%20-%20spears%20500%20power%20list%20V3.jpg?width=1000&amp;height=1000&amp;name=George%20-%20spears%20500%20power%20list%20V3.jpg" width="1000" height="1000" loading="lazy" alt="George - spears 500 power list V3" srcset="https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hub/143587181/hubfs/George%20-%20spears%20500%20power%20list%20V3.jpg?width=500&amp;height=500&amp;name=George%20-%20spears%20500%20power%20list%20V3.jpg 500w, https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hub/143587181/hubfs/George%20-%20spears%20500%20power%20list%20V3.jpg?width=1000&amp;height=1000&amp;name=George%20-%20spears%20500%20power%20list%20V3.jpg 1000w, https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hub/143587181/hubfs/George%20-%20spears%20500%20power%20list%20V3.jpg?width=1500&amp;height=1500&amp;name=George%20-%20spears%20500%20power%20list%20V3.jpg 1500w, https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hub/143587181/hubfs/George%20-%20spears%20500%20power%20list%20V3.jpg?width=2000&amp;height=2000&amp;name=George%20-%20spears%20500%20power%20list%20V3.jpg 2000w, https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hub/143587181/hubfs/George%20-%20spears%20500%20power%20list%20V3.jpg?width=2500&amp;height=2500&amp;name=George%20-%20spears%20500%20power%20list%20V3.jpg 2500w, https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hub/143587181/hubfs/George%20-%20spears%20500%20power%20list%20V3.jpg?width=3000&amp;height=3000&amp;name=George%20-%20spears%20500%20power%20list%20V3.jpg 3000w" sizes="(max-width: 1000px) 100vw, 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,&nbsp;<a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/agent/george-azar/" rel="noopener">George</a>&nbsp;acquired the franchise rights for&nbsp;<a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/" rel="noopener">Sotheby’s International Realty in Dubai</a>&nbsp;– 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,&nbsp;<a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/off-plan-projects/dubai/" rel="noopener">off-plan</a>, and – more recently –&nbsp;<a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/lifestyles/branded-residences/" rel="noopener">the branded residence</a>&nbsp;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&nbsp;<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>&nbsp;(a record it broke itself – twice), the most expensive plot on&nbsp;<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&nbsp;<a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/buy/dubai/property-for-sale-downtown-dubai-burj-khalifa-area-baccarat-hotel-and-residences/" rel="noopener">Baccarat</a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href="https://sothebysrealty.ae/buy/dubai/property-for-sale-jumeirah-four-seasons-private-residences/" rel="noopener">Four Seasons</a>.
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<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,&nbsp;<a href="https://sothebysrealty.sa/en?__hstc=4730476.47e63e13f0660d982b37c7e7748b6aec.1759827332990.1763620907111.1763628511242.122&amp;__hssc=4730476.1.1763628511242&amp;__hsfp=3710229229" rel="noopener">Saudi Arabia Sotheby’s International Realty</a>&nbsp;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&nbsp;<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&nbsp;Family Office division was launched, providing a discreet, full-circle advisory platform across residential real estate, art, automotive, and cross-border investment.
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<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&nbsp;<a href="https://abudhabi-sothebysrealty.ae/en?__hstc=4730476.47e63e13f0660d982b37c7e7748b6aec.1759827332990.1763620907111.1763628511242.122&amp;__hssc=4730476.1.1763628511242&amp;__hsfp=3710229229" rel="noopener">Abu Dhabi Sotheby’s International Realty</a>&nbsp;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.
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<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.
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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;

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

Sotheby’s Concierge Auction at Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week

Explore Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions at Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week, showcasing elite global real estate, rare assets, and cultural experiences this December.

From 2 to 5 December, Abu Dhabi will host an important new addition to its cultural calendar at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort. As the year nears its end, this inaugural edition of Collectors’ Week stands out as a key moment for the region’s art and culture community.
Sotheby’s, in collaboration with the Abu Dhabi Investment Office (ADIO), will present a four-day programme featuring auctions, masterclasses, expert panels, and curated exhibitions. Created as a celebration of the art of collecting, the event highlights Abu Dhabi’s growing influence as a regional centre for creativity, innovation, and cultural expression.
This year’s programme introduces Sotheby’s Concierge Auctions to the Middle East stage, bringing a select collection of international real estate to Abu Dhabi. For the first time, super-prime homes will be auctioned alongside RM Sotheby’s collector cars, rare timepieces, and a remarkable private jewellery collection assembled over several decades.
From private estates along the French Riviera to a one-of-a-kind architectural creation by Zaha Hadid in Graz, Austria, the properties showcased during Collectors’ Week highlight the increasing global demand for homes that combine design, distinction, and long-term investment value.
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<h2>Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat: A Landmark Address on the French Riviera</h2>
At Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat, one of the most prestigious enclaves on the Riviera, this rare waterfront estate offers 7,319 square feet of refined living space set within 0.72 acres of manicured gardens planted with native Mediterranean flora. Originally built in 1954, the home occupies a prime position on the western side of the peninsula and frames uninterrupted sea views from every perspective. Steps from the renowned Four Seasons Grand-Hôtel, the estate features seven en-suite bedrooms, including a grand primary suite with sweeping sea vistas and a private guest wing. Formal living areas include a 70-square-metre reception room and an 80-square-metre panoramic terrace suspended above the coastline.
A separate 75-square-metre guest apartment, with its own outdoor area, offers bespoke accommodation for visitors. Outside, an infinity pool blends into the sea, accompanied by a 60-square-metre pool house, an alfresco summer kitchen, and a dedicated wellness space with a hammam and sauna. Multiple terraces provide quiet corners for reflection and relaxation, adding a sense of calm to this exceptional home. Staff quarters, secure parking, an enclosed garage, and direct waterfront access complete a rare offering in one of the Riviera’s most exclusive neighbourhoods.
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<h2>A Mediterranean Setting of Rare Appeal</h2>
The estate enjoys an exceptional position surrounded by the blue waters of the Mediterranean. It lies moments from the port of Saint-Jean-Cap-Ferrat and within easy reach of both Monaco and Nice. The area is admired for its privacy, understated elegance, and effortless coastal lifestyle. Nearby, the celebrated Villa Ephrussi de Rothschild stands as a testament to the region’s cultural heritage, with its fine art collection and nine themed gardens reflecting the Belle Époque era.
Days here are naturally spent on the water, whether sailing, paddleboarding, or exploring secluded coves along the eleven-kilometre coastal path. Michelin-starred dining, private yacht charters, world-class golfing, and the glamour of the Monaco Grand Prix are all within reach, yet the peninsula retains its sense of discretion and timeless charm.
The property carries a list price of USD 40,500,000, with bidding expected from approximately USD 16,000,000 and a bidder deposit of USD 10,000.
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<h2>Graz, Austria</h2>
Graz, Austria’s second-largest city, is known for its UNESCO-recognised Old Town and the historic Eggenberg Palace. Its streets, shaped by medieval lanes, Renaissance courtyards, and Baroque architecture, offer a layered story of European culture.
This landmark property presents a rare opportunity to acquire an income-producing asset designed by the late Dame Zaha Hadid, one of the most influential architects of the modern era. Situated in the city centre, the fully operational boutique aparthotel spans approximately 20,900 square feet and comprises 21 serviced apartments ranging from 320 to 860 square feet. Managed by Limehome, a leading name in contemporary hospitality, the property delivers reliable income. Three fully leased retail units and 3,200 square feet of office space add to its investment value. An exceptional penthouse crowns the building, suitable for private use or as a premium short-let opportunity with strong revenue potential. With no restrictions on foreign ownership, the property is accessible to international buyers, including non-EU investors.
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<h2>The Surroundings</h2>
Schlossberg hill rises above the city centre, offering sweeping views from its iconic Clock Tower at 473 metres above sea level. Graz’s cultural offering remains rich, from the UNESCO-listed Schloss Eggenberg with its Baroque staterooms and gardens, to the city’s opera house and the annual Styriarte Festival. Beyond the city, the Styrian countryside is defined by rolling vineyards, charming villages, and natural hot springs that offer a peaceful escape.
The property is listed at USD 22,000,000, with bids expected from approximately USD 12,000,000 and a bidder deposit of USD 10,000.
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From 2 to 5 December, Abu Dhabi will host an important new addition to its cultural calendar at The St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort. As the year nears its end, this inaugural edition of Collectors’ Week stands out as a key moment for the region’s art and culture community.

McLaren Takes Centre Stage at RM Sotheby’s First Abu Dhabi Auction

RM Sotheby’s debuts in Abu Dhabi with rare McLarens, including the legendary 1994 F1 and three exclusive models defining the marque’s racing future.

In 2024, RM Sotheby’s made its debut in the UAE with a landmark auction at Dubai’s Alserkal Avenue, the city’s centre for modern art and design. The sale was a triumph, bringing together collectors, enthusiasts, and some of the most desirable cars in the world. Its return later that year at Emirates Golf Club was equally spectacular, achieving record-breaking results and attracting global attention. Among the highlights was an Aston Martin Valkyrie acquired by a distinguished client of Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty.

Abu Dhabi steps into the spotlight in 2025 as the host of RM Sotheby’s next great moment. The auction will be held on Saadiyat Island, the cultural heart of the capital, known for its world-class museums, beachfront elegance, and artistic spirit. The event marks RM Sotheby’s first-ever sale in Abu Dhabi and forms the centrepiece of the inaugural <a href="https://sothebysrealty.sa/en/the-journal/abu-dhabi-collectors-week" rel="noopener">Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week</a>: a new celebration of craftsmanship, heritage, and the art of collecting.
This year’s sale showcases a now-classic Mclaren road car and brings a unique collaboration between RM Sotheby’s and McLaren, presenting an extraordinary trio of cars that represent the future of British engineering. Together, they offer an unmatched opportunity: the chance to own three vehicles that define the next generation of McLaren’s racing legacy.
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<h2>1994 McLaren F1</h2>
<img src="https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/143587181/1-3.jpg" width="1000" height="563" loading="lazy" alt="1994 McLaren F1" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px;">
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The McLaren F1 is a car that changed the history of performance. Designed by Gordon Murray in the early 1990s, it aimed to deliver the thrill of Formula 1 technology in a road car. Murray insisted it would never be a racecar, yet its track variant went on to win Le Mans in 1995, taking first place and cementing its name in motorsport legend. Powered by a naturally aspirated 6.1-litre BMW V12 engine producing over 600 horsepower, the F1 became the fastest production car of its time, reaching an astonishing 391 km/h.
Only 64 road-going versions were built, each one bespoke. Chassis 014 began life in 1994, commissioned by the Royal Family of Brunei in Titanium Yellow with black interiors. It later passed to McLaren’s former director David Clark, before being sold to a long-time American collector. In 2006, the car underwent a full restoration at McLaren’s headquarters in Woking. It was refinished in Ibis White, fitted with the High-Downforce Kit, and upgraded with LM-specification interior trim and carbon fibre enhancements — an investment exceeding $500,000.
The car’s story is steeped in history. Michael Schumacher’s autograph graces its original panels, while the repainted chassis bears the signature of Sir Lewis Hamilton from his rookie F1 season. With royal provenance, meticulous restoration, and direct links to McLaren’s golden era, Chassis 014 is a collector’s dream and a true icon that bridges the past and the present.
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<h2>2026 McLaren Formula 1 Team MCL40A</h2>
<img src="https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/143587181/2%20(1)-1.jpg" width="1000" height="563" loading="lazy" alt="1994 McLaren F1" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px;">
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The 2026 Formula 1 season will usher in a new era of racing. Cars will be lighter, smaller, and powered by sustainable hybrid engines. McLaren’s upcoming MCL40A embodies this evolution as a car built to meet new regulations without compromising speed or performance. Designed by McLaren’s team and powered by a Mercedes AMG hybrid unit, it represents the future of racing innovation.
The MCL40A will make its global debut at the start of the 2026 season, but one collector will have the chance to secure it early through RM Sotheby’s Abu Dhabi sale. The winning bidder will receive a show model of the car this December, while the actual race-driven chassis — used by either Lando Norris or Oscar Piastri — will be handed over in early 2028.
Beyond the car itself, the package includes a private visit to the McLaren Technology Centre in Woking, an exclusive meeting with the F1 team, attendance at the official car launch, and VIP access to two Grand Prix races. It goes beyond a mere acquisition, welcoming its new owner into the heart of the McLaren legacy.
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<h2>2027 McLaren United Autosport WEC Hypercar Team LMDh</h2>
<img src="https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/143587181/3%20(1).jpg" width="1000" height="563" loading="lazy" alt="1994 McLaren F1" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px;">
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Thirty years after McLaren’s unforgettable victory at Le Mans, the marque is returning to endurance racing with a new hypercar designed for the FIA World Endurance Championship. Built in partnership with Dallara, the McLaren LMDh features a hybrid V6 twin-turbo engine and state-of-the-art aerodynamics. While full specifications remain secret, the car has already captured the attention of the motorsport world.
Scheduled to compete in the 2027 season, the LMDh will be delivered to its new owner in early 2028, complete with its full race livery and a signed driver’s suit from one of McLaren’s official racers. The winning bidder will also receive a beautifully produced history book detailing the car’s performance across the WEC season, plus an array of exclusive experiences: four VIP passes to Le Mans, two to the Monaco Grand Prix, two to the Indy 500, and access to every WEC race of 2027 (all with premium hospitality). It’s an ownership experience that goes far beyond the car itself.
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<h2>2026 Arrow McLaren IndyCar Team Dallara-Chevrolet DW12</h2>
<img src="https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/143587181/4-Nov-07-2025-04-28-05-8422-PM.jpg" width="1000" height="563" loading="lazy" alt="1994 McLaren F1" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px;">
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McLaren’s connection to the Indianapolis 500 stretches back more than half a century. After first competing in the 1970s and stepping away to focus on Formula 1, the marque made its celebrated return in the late 2010s. Teaming up with Arrow Schmidt-Peterson Motorsport, McLaren has since redefined American open-wheel racing, with its strongest season yet in 2025.
For the 2026 campaign, McLaren presents the Dallara-Chevrolet DW12: a sleek, powerful machine fuelled by 100% renewable energy. Like the other racecars in this year’s collection, it will be delivered to its new owner in early 2028. The buyer will also enjoy a personal tour of the new Arrow McLaren facility, dinner with team president Kevin Thimjon and 2013 Indy 500 winner Tony Kanaan, and a pair of racing overalls signed by star driver Pato O’Ward. Four VIP tickets to the 2026 Indy 500 complete the package, including a ride around the iconic oval circuit.
&nbsp;
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In 2024, RM Sotheby’s made its debut in the UAE with a landmark auction at Dubai’s Alserkal Avenue, the city’s centre for modern art and design. The sale was a triumph, bringing together collectors, enthusiasts, and some of the most desirable cars in the world. Its return later that year at Emirates Golf Club was equally spectacular, achieving record-breaking results and attracting global attention. Among the highlights was an Aston Martin Valkyrie acquired by a distinguished client of Dubai Sotheby’s International Realty.

Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week: Redefining Culture in the UAE Capital

Discover Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week: auctions, exhibitions & rare collectibles at Saadiyat Island, celebrating art, luxury & culture in the UAE capital.

Abu Dhabi is preparing to host a four-day event of auctions, exhibitions and round-table discussions that underlines its meteoric rise as a global hub for arts and culture. Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week, which will run from 2 to 5 December 2025, is a collaboration between Sotheby’s auction house and Abu Dhabi Investment Office that will unite collectors, investors and experts in luxury from across the globe. The event is being hosted by the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, which sits within the capital’s main cultural district.

Abu Dhabi’s renaissance was underpinned by the development of Saadiyat Island, transforming the quiet fishing destination into a centre of culture. That transformation was led by Louvre Abu Dhabi, which brought one of the world’s most venerable institutions to the capital as the result of a landmark agreement between the UAE and France. By the end of 2025, Zayed National Museum and Abu Dhabi’s very own Natural History Museum will broaden the island’s unique visual and artistic identity, followed by the Guggenheim next year. Saadiyat Island is being recognised as the capital of culture in the UAE, making it an obvious choice to host an event focused on life’s finer things.
Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week will mark the beginning of what is typically one of the busiest months in the capital and across the broader region. The conclusion of the event will line up with the start of the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix on nearby Yas Island, with Abu Dhabi Finance Week, the Milken Institute Middle East and Africa Summit and Bitcoin MENA taking place soon after. Coupled with some fantastic winter weather, this period will see a sharp rise in international visitors, many of whom will no doubt have a keen eye for rare collectibles.
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<img src="https://146414713.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/146414713/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 Auctions in Abu Dhabi</h2>
In 2017, Sotheby’s expanded into the Middle East with its first Dubai office. Having built its regional presence over nearly a decade, the acclaimed auction house has now turned its gaze towards Abu Dhabi. This underlines the immense cultural growth the UAE capital has been able to achieve and is a natural next step in its evolution. The inaugural Sotheby’s Abu Dhabi auction was held during the NBA Abu Dhabi Games 2025 in early October, which saw the New York Knicks face off against the Philadelphia 76ers. An online-only sale, it gave basketball fans an incredible opportunity to bid on jerseys and memorabilia from both teams.
The December sale, which marks the culmination of Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week, will deepen the auction house’s presence in the capital alongside its automotive counterpart RM Sotheby’s by showcasing a variety of items united by a sense of rarity and a distinguished provenance. Chief among them are a Hermes handbag once owned by Jane Birkin and an extensive collection of watches and jewellery from a single collector, of which the centrepiece is the brilliant Desert Rose Diamond. Believed to be the largest Fancy Vivid Orangey Pink stone ever graded, it weighs in at an impressive 31.86 carats and is estimated to fetch as much as SAR25.5 million.
RM Sotheby’s, which made its regional debut in Dubai with two hugely successful auctions, brings an enviable lineup of supercars to the grounds of St. Regis Saadiyat. At the top of the lineup is a 1994 McLaren F1, one of the world’s most acclaimed modern supercars. This example was delivered new to the Brunei Royal Family and, in its restored form, commands an estimate upward of SAR79 million. McLaren also offers three unique and historic opportunities to own its newest competition racers that will participate in upcoming Formula 1, IndyCar and World Endurance Championship events. All three vehicles are singular productions that come packed with bonuses in addition to ownership. Leading that pack is a 2026 McLaren Formula 1 car with an expected price tag of SAR 45 million.
For watch lovers, a rare Rolex ‘Albino’ Daytona reference 62623, which swaps out the usual two-tone dial for a monochrome look that has resulted in its unusual nickname. Only a handful are known to exist and this particular piece has never before come to market. It is estimated to fetch as much as SAR3.75 million.
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<h2>What to Expect from Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week</h2>
The auction is only one part of the week’s schedule of events and for those who are not looking to bid or purchase, there is plenty just to explore and discover.&nbsp;
Many of the lots will be part of public exhibitions held throughout the week, offering visitors the rare chance to view items that are generally kept behind locked doors. Discussions and panels will dive deeper into the history of these rare items, and will pose larger questions around the legacy and preservation of pieces that hold great cultural value. For many, this is a welcome opportunity to broaden their understanding of timeless pieces without the expectation of a purchase.
The arrival of an event of this magnitude is not a grand leap, but a natural step forward on a path that Abu Dhabi has been treading for several years. By developing a slate of cultural programmes and initiatives, the city has built a distinct identity that doesn’t seek to imitate or replicate what has been successful elsewhere. Partnering with global powerhouses like the Louvre and Guggenheim has given Abu Dhabi a platform to create uniquely immersive experiences for showcasing the UAE’s own vibrant culture. Its charm also lies in a more relaxed pace of life compared to other major capitals and even its neighbour Dubai, allowing visitors and residents the space to have the sort of conversations that may usually get lost in the noise of a big city. Saadiyat Island is a reflection of the emirate on a smaller scale, with homes that look out over endless blue horizons and spaces that are designed to invite exploration.
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<h2>Final Thoughts</h2>
There is more to Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week than showcasing rare and valuable items. It is an opportunity to develop a deeper understanding of what gives certain objects an intrinsic sense of value, whether that is emotional or financial. The engineering that goes into the world’s most powerful supercars, the painstaking craftsmanship that produces fine jewellery and watches, the delicate brushstrokes that give life to a work of art - these are the elements that can elevate something ordinary into a collectible.
Some will be attending the event to bid at the auctions, while others will just be there to observe. All of them will be drawn to Saadiyat in order to experience the stories behind the collections as the island pens the next chapter in its own history.
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Abu Dhabi is preparing to host a four-day event of auctions, exhibitions and round-table discussions that underlines its meteoric rise as a global hub for arts and culture. Abu Dhabi Collectors’ Week, which will run from 2 to 5 December 2025, is a collaboration between Sotheby’s auction house and Abu Dhabi Investment Office that will unite collectors, investors and experts in luxury from across the globe. The event is being hosted by the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort, which sits within the capital’s main cultural district.

two-remarkable-cars-at-the-rm-sothebys-london-sale

Engineering Icons: Two Remarkable Cars at the RM Sotheby’s London Sale

Discover two engineering icons at RM Sotheby’s London Sale: the rare 1937 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 B Spider and the bespoke 2024 Aston Martin Valkyrie.

For nearly two decades, RM Sotheby’s has held its place as the leading automotive auction in London, and indeed across the United Kingdom. Every year, it brings together some of the world’s rarest and most valuable classic cars, becoming a key event on the capital’s calendar. In 2024, the auction moved to a prestigious new home at The Peninsula London, which had just opened its doors that summer. With its elegant setting, exceptional hospitality, and world-class collection of cars, the event reached a new level of excellence.
This year, RM Sotheby’s returns once again to The Peninsula as part of London Motor Week, taking place from 27 October to 2 November. The sale will also lead into the famous London to Brighton Veteran Car Run, a historic motoring tradition that will celebrate the 129th anniversary of the 1896 Emancipation Run in 2025. Organised by the Royal Automobile Club since 1930, it remains one of the world’s most beloved automotive events, and RM Sotheby’s is proud to serve as its title sponsor.
In anticipation of the upcoming auction, we look at two extraordinary cars from very different eras. Both represent the height of innovation and design in their time, produced in extremely limited numbers and standing today as true masterpieces of engineering.
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<h2>1937 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 B Spider – in the Style of Zagato</h2>
<img src="https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/143587181/1937%20Alfa%20Romeo%208C%202900%20B%20Spider%20in%20the%20style%20of%20Zagato.jpg" width="1000" height="563" loading="lazy" alt="1937 Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 B Spider in the style of Zagato" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px;">
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During the 1930s, global competition on the racetrack was intense. While Germany’s famous Silver Arrows dominated through sheer technological advancement, few of those innovations ever reached the road. Alfa Romeo, however, achieved something rare: a perfect balance between race-winning performance and everyday usability.
The Alfa Romeo 8C 2900 was the finest example of this philosophy. Its advanced chassis featured independent suspension, lightweight construction, and powerful drum brakes, all designed with racing principles in mind. The car’s eight-cylinder engine, a twin-supercharged 2,905 cc unit derived from the legendary 1934 P3 Tipo B, was a technical marvel and a symbol of Italian engineering excellence.
Only 38 units of the 8C 2900 were ever built, and just a few remain in existence today. Among the most desirable were the ‘Long Spiders’, slightly lengthened by 20 centimetres to create a more comfortable two-seat layout while preserving the car’s racing spirit.
Chassis number 412011 was completed in 1937 and first owned by German industrialist Ernst Carstens, who commissioned a local builder to craft a custom Cabriolet body. Its history during the war years is uncertain, but records indicate the car stayed with the Carstens family until the mid-1950s. After several ownership changes, it underwent partial restoration in 1969, though the original engine - replaced earlier in its life - could not be recovered.
In the 1980s, the car was purchased by noted Alfa Romeo expert David Black, who began a full restoration. Believing it to have originally been a shorter, sportier model later converted into a Cabriolet, he set out to return it to that imagined form. Although he passed away before completion, his family continued the project, and the restoration was finally finished almost twenty years later.
The car retains many original components, and its engine was completely rebuilt in July 2025. The original Cabriolet body also accompanies the vehicle, allowing future owners to display it either in its elegant touring form or its sportier guise.
With more than forty years of single-family ownership and remarkable preservation, this car represents a rare and important chapter in Alfa Romeo history. Embodying craftsmanship, innovation, and enduring beauty, this vehicle is the very essence of pre-war automotive artistry.
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<h2>2024 Aston Martin Valkyrie Coupe</h2>
<img src="https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/143587181/2024%20Aston%20Martin%20Valkyrie%20Coupe.jpg" width="1000" height="563" loading="lazy" alt="2024 Aston Martin Valkyrie Coupe" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px;">
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In the early 2010s, world-renowned Formula 1 designer Adrian Newey joined forces with Red Bull Racing and Aston Martin to create a hypercar unlike any before it, with the aim of bringing Formula One technology to the road. The project, first known as Nebula, evolved into what is now the Aston Martin Valkyrie.
Named after the mythical Norse warriors who rode winged horses into battle, the Valkyrie lives up to its name in every sense. Built almost entirely from carbon fibre, with not a single steel component, the car’s structure is ultra-light yet incredibly strong. Its naturally aspirated 6.5-litre V12 engine produces an astonishing 1,160 horsepower, while its aerodynamic design allows race-level performance without compromising the car’s graceful shape. Even its brake lights are a feat of engineering as the smallest ever fitted to a production vehicle, and the hydraulic system incorporates technology used in Apache helicopters.
The car presented at auction is one of only 25 right-hand drive examples from a total of 150 road-legal Valkyries. This particular model, named Anemos (meaning “wind” in Greek) is one of the most highly customised Valkyries ever built. Its design blends performance with artistry: purple-tinted exposed carbon fibre and matching Alcantara upholstery are complemented by 24-carat gold leaf detailing throughout, including the steering wheel, engine start button, and body accents. Even the Aston Martin and Anemos logos are finished in gold, with matching embroidery on the seats and honeycomb-pattern wheels.
Completed in early 2024 and registered that March, Anemos has covered just 112 miles. Presented in pristine condition, it is a masterpiece of modern craftsmanship and a showcase of the passion, precision, and personalisation that define the new age of automotive excellence.
&nbsp;
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For nearly two decades, RM Sotheby’s has held its place as the leading automotive auction in London, and indeed across the United Kingdom. Every year, it brings together some of the world’s rarest and most valuable classic cars, becoming a key event on the capital’s calendar. In 2024, the auction moved to a prestigious new home at The Peninsula London, which had just opened its doors that summer. With its elegant setting, exceptional hospitality, and world-class collection of cars, the event reached a new level of excellence.

250-years-of-breguet-a-historic-sothebys-auction-in-geneva

250 Years of Breguet: A Historic Sotheby’s Auction in Geneva

Celebrate 250 years of Breguet with Sotheby’s Geneva auction this November — showcasing rare timepieces, royal provenance, and the legacy of fine watchmaking.

Abraham-Louis Breguet is widely considered the most important figure in the history of watchmaking – a visionary whose designs broke with convention, combining technical mastery, elegant form, and rare materials. His timepieces remain defined by ingenuity, significance, and a deep sense of style rooted in purpose and innovation. A Breguet watch doesn’t simply tell time, it expresses character. In the ever-changing world of fine watchmaking, few names carry the same weight or mystique.
The upcoming Sotheby’s auction will illustrate exactly why Breguet remains as impactful a name today as it was 250 years ago.
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<img src="https://143587181.fs1.hubspotusercontent-eu1.net/hubfs/143587181/sothebys%20blog%20final.jpg" width="1000" height="251" loading="lazy" alt="250 Years of Breguet with Sotheby’s in Geneva" style="height: auto; max-width: 100%; width: 1000px;"> 
<h2>250 Years of Breguet with Sotheby’s in Geneva</h2>
This November, Sotheby’s will host a landmark event celebrating Breguet’s 250-year legacy in watchmaking. Concluding with a sale on 9 November in Geneva, the auction will present some of the finest examples of Breguet’s horological excellence, brought together in collaboration with Montres Breguet SA and Emmanuel Breguet, Vice President, Head of Patrimony, and direct descendant of Abraham-Louis Breguet. The largest Breguet sale in over 25 years, it will highlight key moments in the brand’s rich and influential history, with a curated selection of pocket watches, wristwatches, and clocks. Taking place as part of Sotheby’s Luxury Sales in Geneva, it will coincide with the bi-annual Important Watches live auction.
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<h2>The Art of Breguet</h2>
Abraham-Louis Breguet revolutionised watchmaking by solving long-standing technical challenges and introducing innovations that laid the groundwork for modern complications. His inventions – such as the tourbillon and self-winding mechanism – remain integral to contemporary horology. Among his many breakthroughs were the automatic watch, the first shock-absorbing system (‘pare-chute’), and the Breguet balance spring, which still bears his name. He also pioneered the travelling clock and the ingenious ‘sympathique’ clock. These creations captured the imagination of Europe’s elite. From royalty and political leaders to writers and composers, the list of admirers who collected Breguet’s work is as distinguished as it is enduring.
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<h2>Breguet – “A Watchmaker of Kings and the King of Watchmakers”</h2>
If one were to open Breguet’s client register, they would step directly into history, encountering names that helped shape the world.
Known as the “Father of Modern Watchmaking” and famously nicknamed “The Watchmaker of Kings and the King of Watchmakers,” Breguet drew an elite clientele captivated by his extraordinary creations – pieces that often took months, sometimes years, to complete. Among his most celebrated and controversial admirers was Queen Marie-Antoinette, one of his earliest and most devoted patrons. She wore his timepieces herself and openly championed his talent at court and within her inner circle. Breguet created watch No. 160 – now famously known as the ‘Marie-Antoinette’ – especially for the Queen. It was a marvel, showcasing every known complication and refinement of the time. Though never seen or worn by the Queen, the watch was completed after her death and kept safe by Breguet as a quiet tribute to her memory.
The master soon became the watchmaker of choice for Europe’s most influential figures, including Napoleon Bonaparte, King George III, the British Royal Family, and the Tsar of Russia, who were all seeking the finest in horological craftsmanship. Today, Breguet’s legacy retains its raw brilliance, as revered now as it was in his own time.
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<h2>Sotheby’s Auction – An Event of Royal Note</h2>
Arguably the greatest watchmaker in history, Abraham-Louis Breguet left a profound mark on horology and laid the groundwork for modern watchmaking. Sotheby’s commemorative auction is a fitting tribute to his enduring legacy, with each lot thoughtfully chosen to reflect its importance. Among the highlights is Breguet’s 1827 Perpétuelle à Tact Watch, featuring date, power reserve, and up-and-down indication – made for and owned by King George IV of the United Kingdom and Ireland, and engraved with his royal monogram on the case back. The sale also includes other rare examples directly from a branch of the Breguet family, alongside an open-faced Breguet montre à tact with calendar and moonphases, which inspired the Reference 3330.
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<h2>Final Thoughts</h2>
Watches have long been woven into the fabric of Sotheby’s. More than just instruments of time, these rare timepieces are celebrated for their craftsmanship, artistry and beauty and continue to captivate collectors and connoisseurs alike. It’s not only the watches themselves that intrigue, but also the stories they carry and the fine artistry behind their making. From diamond-set masterpieces to elegantly traditional designs, watches have consistently stood out as the crown jewels of Sotheby’s auctions. The house provides a space where rare watches become personal statements and collections are curated to spark emotion and celebrate individuality –&nbsp; underpinned by the belief that meaningful timepieces should speak to the present and remain timeless for the future.
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Given Sotheby’s long and distinguished history of bringing Breguet timepieces to auction – and a shared reverence for the craft – the Geneva event is far more than a sale. It is a celebration of a landmark anniversary, paying tribute to the brilliance of Abraham-Louis Breguet and his many horological breakthroughs. As these historic pieces go under the hammer, each one carries a unique story, ready to continue its journey as part of a living legacy, held by collectors who recognise not only their worth, but their significance, too.
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Abraham-Louis Breguet is widely considered the most important figure in the history of watchmaking – a visionary whose designs broke with convention, combining technical mastery, elegant form, and rare materials. His timepieces remain defined by ingenuity, significance, and a deep sense of style rooted in purpose and innovation. A Breguet watch doesn’t simply tell time, it expresses character. In the ever-changing world of fine watchmaking, few names carry the same weight or mystique.

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