Patek Philippe

• cal. 12-400 manual-winding nickel lever movement stamped twice with the seal of Geneva, 18 jewels, mono-metallic compensation balance, micrometer regulator, adjusted to heat, cold, isochronism and five positions • dial with polychrome cloisonné enamel center depicting flowers on the vine, outer pink chapter ring with applied pink gold Arabic numerals at the quarters and applied dots throughout, pink gold feuille hands • 18k pink gold case, chamfered bezel, chamfered downturned lugs, inscription to the snap back • case, dial and movement signed

The movement is running and was serviced recently by Patek Philippe in Geneva, however it might need service or adjustment soon. The dial has been refreshed by Patek Philippe and appears very clean and nice. The enamel does not show any loss and is bright and lovely. The brushed pink border is very nice. The case shows signs of light polish overall and the gold stamp to the back of the upper left lug is lightly rubbed, but visible. The outside of the back has an engraving reading, 'Buff to Peter, May 1, 1958'. There are also two French owl stamps that are slightly rubbed. The strap of this watch contains endangered species; please refer to Important Notices for further information.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Accompanied by an Extract from the Archives confirming production with cloisonné enamel dial in 1954 and sale on January 15th, 1955.

Ref. 2494 first appeared in 1951 and was produced for approximately three years thereafter. To the best of our knowledge, no other examples from this reference are known to bear a cloisonné enamel dial.

The craft of cloisonné enameling is reserved for only the most skilled and patient of artisans. Each piece is a unique work created for the motif of the client's request. The present dial was made by Stern Frères, the greatest dial producer of this time who made all the enamel dials for Patek Philippe in this era.

The present example is being offered on behalf of the family of the original owner and this is the first time for it to appear at auction.