Al Capone’s Diamond-Encrusted Pocket Watch Heads to Auction
The Patek Philippe timepiece with a custom case will hit the block June 10
Largely considered the most famous gangster ever, Al Capone was almost as well-known for his flashy style as he was for his illegal dealings. Even during his court appearances, Capone opted for bold suit colors and expensive wingtip shoes. Part of his elaborate ensembles was a Patek Philippe pocket watch.
On June 10, the timepiece—complete with a custom case featuring 90 diamonds that spell out Capone’s initials—will be auctioned at Sotheby’s as part of the June Important Watches sale. It is not known exactly when Capone acquired the watch, but it no longer has a minute hand. However, the open-face design, featuring Breguet numerals and custom Art Deco touches, makes it an irresistible piece of history.
“The present Patek Philippe pocket watch is an exceptional embodiment of the extravagant style Capone was known for,” Sotheby’s said in a statement. With a presale estimate of $80,000-160,000, the watch remained in the family estate for centuries before being auctioned off with other items from Capone in 2021.