Fine Wrist & Pocket Watches

March 23^rd 2026 10:30am

Wallis & Wallis of Lewes is set to offer the significant watch collection of the late Frank Machala. Comprising over 230 lots, the sale spans the horological spectrum—from accessible vintage Omega pieces to complicated rarities by A. Lange & Söhne and Patek Philippe. 

Naval and Military History

The pocket watch section is particularly robust, led by a remarkable A. Lange & Söhne minute repeater. This historical lot was presented to Rear Admiral Nikolay Orlov for gallantry during the Battle of Tsushima in 1905—a pivotal naval engagement of the Russo-Japanese War.

Continuing the military theme is an 18kt gold half-hunter by Dent of London. While the firm’s Royal Warrant and reputation for precision are well known, this piece carries both civil and military appeal: it was presented in 1905 by the Admiralty to William Steed in recognition of his service as Foreman of the Jetty at Port Elizabeth—the primary transit hub for the South African Field Force during the Boer War.

Continental Elegance

A further South African connection appears in an Audemars Frères 18kt full-hunter minute repeater chronograph. The case is engraved with the coat of arms of the Dutch aristocratic Beelaerts van Blokland family, notable for their deep political ties to both the Netherlands and South Africa. The watch is distinguished by a rare runic dial, also bearing the family name.

Wristwatch Highlights

The wristwatch selection is headlined by two exceptional Patek Philippe references in white gold: A Calatrava Ref. 5022G, featuring a rare, Patek-signed white gold mesh bracelet and a Golden Ellipse Ref. 3605/1G, co-signed by Beyer of Zurich, one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious watch retailers. These are accompanied by over 40 vintage Omegas, as well as a host of other precious metal dress watches.

The sale will take place on Monday 23rd March, commencing at 9:30am. Bidding live will be available via www.wallisandwallis.co.uk - www.easyliveAuction.com & www.the-saleroom.com