The Vacheron Constantin Cory Richards’ Overseas Prototype was auctioned at Phillips Watches last night December 10th in New York City as part of the Phillips’ Game Changers auction. The Phillips Game Changers auction was dedicated to watches owned by extraordinary people who are considered “game changers” in their fields. Along with Cory Richards’ watch, other important watches were offered for sale including Jack Nicklaus’ Rolex Day-Date as well as Marlon Brando’s Rolex GMT Master.

A unique piece made for the American, explorer, and photographer, Cory Richards, Vacheron Constantin created this watch for Richards’ third attempt at climbing Mount Everest as he wanted a robust wristwatch that could accompany him through one of the most grueling expeditions while keeping track of time on Everest and back at home in the U.S. The Vacheron Constantin Overseas Dual Time Cory Richards prototype features a 41mm case made of titanium with tantalum reinforcements around the crown and pusher. This Overseas Dual-Time Prototype is being sold to benefit the National Geographic Society, a non-profit organization dedicated to pushing the boundaries of exploration and generating solutions for a healthy and more sustainable future.

Cory Richards, in collaboration with Vacheron Constantin, has chosen to support a National Geographic Society project that focuses on education and cultural preservation. Richards has photographed 11 stories for National Geographic Magazine and is deeply committed to extending financial and educational opportunities to the communities that have carried him through his career. For that purpose, he chose an Overseas Dual Time. In honor of his challenge and his constant quest to excel, the Manufacture created a prototype especially with him in mind and featuring an oscillating weight engraved with a design based on one of his Everest photos.

Selling for a total of $106,250 USD —including buyer’s fees— the watch almost tripled its original estimate at the Phillips Watches auction last night. While the Cory Richards' prototype is a unique piece and not a regular production watch, it is important to mention that the retail price for a stainless steel Overseas Dual Time is only $24,700. The unique look of this watch along with the story and provenance that accompanies it, warrants the amount paid at Phillips. If only Vacheron Constantin made this a regular production watch.

For more info on Vacheron Constantin click here.