Tales from the life of a wunderkind

by Aurel Bacs, co-head watch department, Christie's

The story of my life is quite complicated. My father dreamt of having the perfect child. One who was diΩerent from the others, more sophisticated. But my conception proved to be no easy task. Only after several years, and with the help of a few specialists, did my birth actually take place. I was born on a cold day in the Swiss mountains, but was brought to New York at an early stage in my life. In fact, right from the start I was different from all the others. People marveled at my small stature, yet it was obvious I was a more complex character. I was always ahead of my time. I could give people something no on  else could. Today, speaking to you as someone who has come of age, I can tell you I still find people complementing my elegant, youthful appearance and my beautiful face. From a certain age onwards, looks become very important, and many people help refresh their appearance with a touch-up here and there. I can honestly claim that my body and face have aged quite naturally. If you want to know my secret, it is my distinguished heritage, but I also had the good fortune of never being exposed to any form of hard labour or strenuous sports.

I was born into a time of turmoil, when the world was hit by the Great Depression. People wondered why my father had taken on the idea of such a costly child in a time when money was tight and people saved every penny. But my father did not let anyone deter him. He was proud of me and took me out and showed me off to the world. People listened closely to every sound I made. I was even pictured in magazines, and people marveled at my beauty. At the tender age of ten, journalists featured me along with 26 other Wunderkinder
in LIFE magazine.

Many people recognized my potential and oΩered to look after me. My father was always reluctant, and kept me as close as possible to him, watching over me all the time. When I was a teenager, however, my father realized it was time for me to move on and experience a different life. My new home happened to be one of the wealthiest in New York. I now lived with the distinguished Topping family,Uncle Dan being the owner of the New York Yankees. I spent many a memorable day watching the Yankees play at the ballpark. My life changed and I was introduced to the world’s high society. I became renowned for my grace and inner values. I remained with my guardian for over a
decade, during which time I witnessed his marriage to Lana Turner. She and I had a good and close relationship. I cannot tell you how much it meant to me to be admired by such a star. I accompanied the two to events throughout the world and, even at the side of such a glamorous figure as Lana, I proved to be the centre of attention. Sadly, she left home before I did. At the age of 28, I left as well, as my guardian and I decided to part company.

For the last 30 years I have kept rather a low proflle but have still had a great time. It is difficult for me to speak about this, however I must tell you that I was just sold at an auction.

Oh, did I forget to introduce myself ?
I am the James Schulz ultra-complicated wristwatch - the world’s most complicated wristwatch for over half a century. My last owner consigned me to Christie's where an avid collector « took me home » on Monday, November 13th 2006, for over 1.000.000 dollars.