IWC has supported the Saint Exupéry Foundation since 2005, drawing inspiration from Antoine de Saint-Exupéry’s dual legacy as both an acclaimed writer and an accomplished aviator. This shared passion for flight has given rise to a series of tribute timepieces ranging from simple time-only models to highly sophisticated complications. Among the most notable is the present example: a pink gold perpetual calendar with automatic winding and an impressive seven-day power reserve, exemplifying the technical refinement and poetic spirit that define the Saint Exupéry collection.

The Estate of Dr. Adrian Christie
The Estate of Dr. Adrian Christie reflects the life and passions of a man devoted both to science and the art of timekeeping. A respected pathologist with a medical degree from the University of Wales College of Medicine, Dr. Christie practiced medicine for decades while cultivating a deep appreciation for horology in his spare time. His collecting journey began during a visit to Johannesburg, South Africa, where the discovery of an antique pocket watch inspired a lifelong pursuit that spanned from 17th-century English verge watches to modern classics such as the Patek Philippe Aquanaut and Rolex Submariner. Indeed, Dr. Christie was a passionate member of the National Association of Watch & Clock Collectors (NAWCC).

In his writings for the Macomb County Medical Society Journal, Dr. Christie reflected on how his fascination with watches deepened his understanding of history itself—a passion epitomized by several pieces in his collection, including a remarkable enamel-portrait pocket watch of General Rudra Shumsher, and a highly complicated hunting cased watch made in celebration of King George V.

We are pleased to celebrate Dr. Christie’s collection this season and thank Mrs. Mynetta Christie for her loving anecdotes of a wonderful member of the collecting community.