French auction house Artcurial is hosting a sale on December 16th, entirely dedicated to former French President Charles de Gaulle. The auction includes several timepieces previously owned by de Gaulle, who was an important military figure during World War II.
Charles de Gaulle, also known as General de Gaulle, led the Free French Forces against Nazi Germany during the war. He later chaired the Provisional Government of the French Republic and became the Prime Minister of France. He was elected as the President of France and served in that position until 1969.
While most of the auction consists of military decorations and manuscripts written by de Gaulle, there are also several watches and clocks that have caught the attention of collectors. One notable piece is a yellow gold Lip Electronic R27 Patent Pending wristwatch worn by de Gaulle from 1958 onwards. This watch is historically important not only because of its provenance but also because of its unique hybrid mechanical and electronic movement.
Another interesting lot is a clock given to de Gaulle by Eunice Kennedy, sister of John F. Kennedy. The clock is a symbol of the strong Franco-American friendship. It is a Bulova timepiece with an Accutron tuning fork movement and includes engravings commemorating Christmas 1969 and the relationship between de Gaulle and the Kennedys.
