Patek Philippe

• cal. 27-460Q automatic movement stamped with the Geneva seal, 37 jewels, 18k gold rotor • silvered matte dial, applied gold baton and square numerals, day and month apertures, eccentric aperture for the Roman leap year indication between 3 and 4 o'clock, subsidiary dial for date combined with phases of the moon at the 6 o'clock • circular case, stepped enlarged bezel, snap on back • case, dial and movement signed • with an 18k gold Patek Philippe buckle

 

Movement is running at the time of cataloguing however it may require a service in the near future to be well preserved. Dial in very good condition. Case with some rare light scuffs to the polished bezel. Brushed band and in good condition. Back with scuffs. Overall in good condition.
"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."

Reference 3450 was the direct descendant to the successful reference 3448, the first world's self-winding perpetual calendar wristwatch made for nearly 20 years. It differs from the reference 3448 as all examples from this model have a sapphire crystal, slightly smaller snap case back, measuring 2 mm smaller than that of Ref. 3448 and  thicker bezel.

The case of the Ref. 3450 is stamped with the key of Favre & Perret located in La Chaux-de-Fonds, whose mark was registered in 1934.  In 1981 Patek Philippe presented the Ref. 3450 with only 244 pieces made which showed a few new innovations and developments compared to its predecessor. The circle aperture between 3 & 4 o'clock position featuring leap year indicator is considered to be one of them. This reference is considered rare and difficult to find.

This example could probably be considered one of the most appealing and most attractive examples coming to the market in recent years thanks to its numerous features. Shown here in a practically unworn condition and possibly never repolished, it displays very sharp edges, an outstanding satin finish both on lugs and bands and crisp hallmarks.

Considered a classic since its production, Ref. 3450 is now a prime example of vintage Patek Philippe wristwatches. Due to its increasing rarity, this watch meets all the demands of the discerning collector.

Reference 3450 is illustrated in Patek Philippe Wristwatches by Martin Huber & Alan Banbery, second edition, p. 290, pl. 449a