Henry Graves (banker)

Henry Graves Jr. (1868-1953) was a prominent American banker and horological enthusiast, best known for commissioning some of the most complicated and significant timepieces ever created. He was a partner in the banking firm of Winslow, Lanier & Co. in New York City and was a member of a wealthy and socially prominent family.

Graves' passion for fine watches led him to become a major patron of Patek Philippe. He challenged James Ward Packard, another wealthy American watch collector, to acquire the most complicated and impressive watches. This competition spurred the creation of several extraordinary timepieces.

Graves commissioned the "Henry Graves Supercomplication" from Patek Philippe. This pocket watch, completed in 1933, took three years to design and five years to manufacture. It boasted 24 complications, including a perpetual calendar, minute repeater, celestial chart showing the night sky over New York City, and sunrise and sunset times. It held the title of the most complicated watch in the world for over 50 years and remains one of the most highly prized and valuable timepieces ever made.

Graves also owned other important watches, including a Patek Philippe Grande Complication wristwatch and numerous other significant pocket watches. His collection was renowned for its quality and complexity, reflecting his deep knowledge and appreciation for horology. After his death, his collection was sold, with the Supercomplication achieving record prices at auction, cementing his legacy as one of the most important figures in the history of watch collecting.