On June 10, Christie’s will hold its Important Watches sale in New York. Like most auctions of this caliber, the event will include prestigious and rare wristwatches by the leading brands, as well as an impressive number of pieces by independent makers. Chief among the latter grouping is the most expensive watch ever offered at Christie’s in the Americas.

Estimated at $3 million to $4 million, the piece is a Richard Mille Tourbillon Sapphire that exemplifies the brand’s use of groundbreaking materials and its expertise in micro-engineering. Made in a limited edition of 10 pieces, the “full set” Tourbillon Sapphire RM56-02 AO was first shown at the Hong Kong edition of Watches and Wonders in 2015. It will be joined by the usual suspects — Rolex , Patek Philippe, Audemars Piguet, Cartier and more — many of which carry historical significance.

“This edition of Christie’s Important Watches New York is particularly interesting for the depth and richness of its offering,” Rebecca Ross, head of sale at Christie’s New York, said in a statement. “Next to modern, contemporary and vintage watchmaking wonders, including rare and significant pieces by Rolex, Patek Philippe as well as surprising creations by Audemars Piguet, Cartier and Vacheron Constantin, there will also be some of the finest works by great independents, such as F.P.

Journe and Daniel Roth. The timepieces in this sale transcend mere beauty; they symbolize significant moments in history, from groun.