PATEK PHILIPPE | HIGHLY IMPORTANT AND EXTREMELY RARE PINK GOLD PERPETUAL CALENDAR CHRONOGRAPH WRISTWATCH WITH MOON PHASES, RETAILED BY TIFFANY & CO.REF 2499 MVT 869438 CASE 2637713 MADE IN 1971

Movement: cal. 13''' manual, 18 jewelsCase: 18k pink gold, snap-on case back Bracelet/Clasp/Buckle: 18k pink gold Patek Philippe buckleSize: 37.5 mm diameterSigned: case, dial and movement signed, dial further signed by retailerAccessories: Patek Philippe presentation box. Furthermore delivered with Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1971 and its subsequent sale on 31 October 1972

The movement is in working condition at the time of cataloguing. All functions are in wokring condition. This pink 2499 is the only known third series pink retailed by Tiffany. The overall condition is exceptional which render this pink example one of the most important. The dial is very warm and in excellent condition. There is some light tarnishing to some of the numerals and hands. The case is unpolished with a hallmark between the lug at 6 o'clock. Please note all pink gold 2499 third series are stamped in a very similar way with a very light hallmark between the lugs at 6 o'clock. The lugs are fluted with full proportions. There is very light service wear to the case but is in overall exceptional 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."

This exceptionally rare and highly important reference 2499 third series cased in pink gold and retailed by Tiffany is an outstanding wristwatch and is potentially the only one of its kind. The watch first surface at auction in 2005 where it was consigned by the original owner. The watch sold for over 750,000 US dollars and has been kept privately ever since. There are only six examples known of the third series dressed in pink gold. The present watch was manufactured in 1971 and sold in 1972. This example is considered to be one of the very best. The case is unpolished and in sensational condition. The case is extraordinary crisp, very original and the lugs are very sharp and fluted to the highest degree. There is a faint hallmark between the lugs at 6 o’clock but like all other pink third series they are stamped in a very similar way. The dial is original and has seen no cosmetic intervention and the Tiffany and Co signature is stamped underneath the moon.

In superb, unpolished and completely original, this 2499 pink competes at every level and must be considered one of the most beautiful  and important watches they have ever made.

Today the 2499 is the hottest and most sought after watches on the market and was first introduced in 1950 and made in five series until 1986. Consigned by a highly important collector Sotheby’s is delighted to present this watch to the market.