134 Daniel Roth Number 1, highly important and mesmerizing, Monopusher chronograph wristwatch in platinum, with two-tone guillochè dial, coming from the original owner

Estimate: CHF 60,000 –⁠ 120,000

In 1991, merely two years after establishing his eponymous brand, Daniel Roth produced a limited series of Monopusher Chronographs, with just 36 pieces in yellow gold and an even rarer 16 in platinum. The watch presented here is, without question, the most significant among them all, being from the ultra-exclusive platinum series and, as confirmed by the dial inscription “Numero 01”, the very first one ever made. The dial, a restrained shade of grey gold, seamlessly integrates with the platinum case: the interplay of textures, from the guillochè decoration at the center to the brushed chapter ring with Roman numerals, elevates the visual depth and refinement of this masterpiece. The iconic double-ellipse case strikes a perfect balance between round and rectangular forms. Notably, this Monopusher Chronograph features a larger case than Roth’s other models, designed to accommodate the impressive Lemania 2220 ébauche. Roth was a pioneer in revitalizing vintage ébauches, a practice later adopted by many other watchmakers. These large movements, decorated to the highest standards, feature beveled edges, and polished components, exemplifying the finest in haute horlogerie craftsmanship. True to Roth’s meticulous approach, this movement bears the “N 1”, underscoring his commitment to pairing uniquely numbered dials and calibers. As history unfolded, 10 additional movements were discovered and later incorporated into Daniel Roth chronographs after the watchmaker’s personal involvement with the brand began to wane. Yet, this very piece —the first of its lineage, crafted in the most prestigious material, and preserved in extraordinary condition by its original owner— represents the ultimate holy grail for collectors of contemporary independent watchmaking, “Numero 01”, is the birth certificate of an icon.