Sotheby’s Names Head of Watch Auctions

RAPAPORT… Sotheby’s has hired Sam Hines as worldwide head of its watch
division — the auction house’s second senior appointment for its jewelry and
timepiece department in less than two months. 


Based in Hong Kong, Hines (pictured) will oversee the unit and work
with the existing team on its major sales in Geneva, New York, Hong Kong and
London, Sotheby’s said Monday. He has 20 years of experience in the auction and
watch sectors, with his most recent role being international head of watches at auction house Phillips. He was previously
international co-head for timepieces at Christie’s.


Hines will work under Laurence Nicolas, whom Sotheby’s recruited in December as head of jewelry and watches. She will join the company in February.


“The watch market is one of the most global and fastest-growing
collecting categories, and we are delighted to welcome Sam at this moment of
tremendous opportunity for Sotheby’s,” said Sotheby’s CEO Tad Smith. “He joins
an outstanding international watch team and, together with Laurence who joins
us next month, will play an integral role in advancing our strategies.”