Fine jewellery and watches to highlight Bonhams' first Middle East auction

Bonhams, the international fine art auction house established in the UK since 1793, will hold a dedicated fine jewellery and watches auction on Tuesday 4th March 2008 at 7pm at the One & Only, Royal Mirage Hotel. This follows the art auction on Monday 3rd March featuring some of the biggest names in modern Arab, Iranian and Indian art.

"The UAE is fast becoming a leader for fashion and jewellery on par with Paris, London and New York, and interest is high across the region for classic jewellery and watches," said Matthew Girling, Bonhams' European & Middle Eastern Chief Executive.

"We expect timeless pieces, such as those we are presenting at our first Middle East auction, to have widespread appeal. Our clients in the region expect the best of the best, whether that is in the cut, quality or design of a piece. We have sourced auction items from across the globe for their specific appeal to the market, for their rarity, value and beauty."

A Colombian emerald and diamond ring - set with a 15 carat cabochon emerald, by Hatik - will be the piece de résistance of the evening's auction. The ring is estimated at $480,000 - 500,000.

A ruby and diamond suite - comprising of necklace, bracelet, ring and earrings - is expected to reach well over $500,000. For those looking for something a little more reasonable, a Cartier diamond flower brooch is available at $30,000 - 35,000.

A Hublot chronograph watch made of a rare 18 carat rose gold and ceramic with platinum and diamond set bezel is estimated at $20,000 - 25,000. For Franck Muller followers, two unique watches are set to go under the hammer, the perfect his and hers gift with a combined value of over $40,000.

Invitees will also have the opportunity to bid for Rolex and Breguet time pieces.