Patek Philippe

• cal. 13 manual winding nickel lever movement, 23 jewels, mono-metallic balance • silvered dial, applied gold dot and Arabic numerals, 3 subsidiary dials for constant seconds, 30-minute register and date with moon-phases, outer ring for tachometer scale • 18k pink gold case, square chronograph pushers, snap-on case back • case, dial and movement signed • with an 18k pink gold Gay Frères link bracelet 

Movement, perpetual function and chronograph are in working order while cataloguing. Recent service sticker is on the case back. Dial is nicely preserved, slightly fading hard enamel on the date ring and tachometer, probably due to the cleaning from the service of Patek Philippe. The case is also well preserved, sharp edges. Strong hallmark to the left band and bottom of top right lug. Only a few of light surface scuffs to the bezel and minor scuffs to the bottom of the lugs. Very minor surface wear to the bracelet and clasp. Overall condition is excellent for its age. A truly collectible piece.
"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."

With an Extract from the Archives confirming production with applied indexes in 1951 and sale on July 2nd, 1953. 

The iconic Ref. 1518 was the first wristwatch ever serially produced by any watch manufacturer that combines the complication of a perpetual calendar, a chronograph and the phases of the moon.  Introduced in 1941, produced during and after World War II, a total of 281 pieces were made with the majority made in yellow gold, until its production ceased in 1954. This elegant watch is easily recognizable with its square chronograph pushers, elongated lugs and feuille hands, all harmonizing beautifully within a classic Calatrava case.  This design was an inspiration to later references, including the Ref. 2499, 3970, 5970 and now the 5170. 

The present example in 18k pink gold is highly collectable and extremely rare.  According to our research, this is one of 46 pink gold cases publicly known, out of a total of approximately 60 pieces made.  Adding to its exceptional rarity, the dial of this watch bears a "Mile" tachometer making it one of only four known to the market of the 46 pink gold examples.

This piece has never appeared at auction before and was kept in a private collection for over 30 years, acquired in Zurich by the owner.  This timepiece is a well-preserved example of this reference, and was serviced within the last ten years.  Furthermore, the present watch is further enhanced with a finely crafted 18k pink gold bracelet by Gay Frères.