THE SCENE :: 24TH ANNUAL SHOWBOATS INTERNATIONAL RENDEZVOUS

 The auction saw exclusive timepieces from Ulysse Nardin, including five “Classico” watches that were auctioned for $25,000 each.

The 24th Annual Showboats International Rendezvous raised more than $1 million for the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County. The formal gala, which was held at the Mar-a-Lago Club in Palm Beach Nov. 12, was hosted by Donald and Melania Trump and was the highlight of the four-day fundraiser.

Luxury Swiss watchmaker Ulysse Nardin accelerated the fundraising efforts by contributing more than $200,000. Ulysse Nardin, the leader in timepiece invention and innovation, honored 16 members of the Fleet Admirals Club with one-of-a-kind timepieces. Appropriately named The Admiral, the exclusive timepieces went to well deserving individuals; each of the members have pledged an annual donation of $50,000 to the Boys & Girls Clubs of Broward County for at least five years. Amongst the 16 philanthropists honored are distinguished business leaders such as Wayne Huizenga, Rick Case and Douglas and Linda Von Allmen.

Each recipient’s name was engraved into his or her timepiece that was presented to them on stage by Ulysse Nardin CEO Patrik P. Hoffmann.

“We are honored to have taken part in such a wonderful charity event with some of South Florida’s most generous philanthropists,” Hoffmann said.

The spectacular evening was further decorated by a live auction, a gourmet dinner and entertainment by the Doobie Brothers.

The auction saw exclusive timepieces from Ulysse Nardin, including five “Classico” watches that were auctioned for $25,000 each. The winning bidders had the option to add a personal touch to their winnings by engraving an image of their choice to the back of the timepiece.

The new “El Toro” timepiece—the first of its kind available worldwide—went to the highest bidder for $75,000–$20,000 above its retail value.

“The big-heartedness of the community has been inspiring and we look forward to participating in the event again next year,” Hoffmann said.