Sotheby's Names Head of Watch Auctions

RAPAPORT... Sotheby's has hired Sam Hines as worldwide head of its watchdivision - the auction house's second senior appointment for its jewelry andtimepiece department in less than two months.  Based in Hong Kong, Hines (pictured) will oversee the unit and workwith the existing team on its major sales in Geneva, New York, Hong Kong andLondon, Sotheby's said Monday. He has 20 years of experience in the auction andwatch sectors, with his most recent role being international head of watches at auction house Phillips. He was previouslyinternational 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-growingcollecting categories, and we are delighted to welcome Sam at this moment oftremendous opportunity for Sotheby's," said Sotheby's CEO Tad Smith. "He joinsan outstanding international watch team and, together with Laurence who joinsus next month, will play an integral role in advancing our strategies."