Important Watches I

Patek Philippe

Reference 2526 | A yellow gold wristwatch with black enamel dial, Made in 1955

Auction Closed

April 24, 08:45 AM GMT

Estimate

700,000 - 1,200,000 HKD

Lot Details

Description

Patek Philippe

Reference 2526

A yellow gold wristwatch with black enamel dial, Made in 1955

Dial: black enamel

Calibre: cal. 12-600AT automatic, 30 jewels

Movement number: 761'510

Case: 18k yellow gold, screw down case back

Case number: 687'237

Closure: brown unsigned leather strap and 18k yellow gold Patek Philippe Henri Stern buckle

Size: 35 mm diameter

Signed: case, dial and movement

Accessories: Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1955 and its subsequent sale on 22 September 1955

Patek Philippe introduced their first model featuring the legendary caliber 12'''600 AT self-winding movement, in 1953. The reference 2526 would become an international success and can be found in all precious metals with or without bracelets, and in various dial configurations. The present lot is cased in yellow gold and fitted with a black enamel dial.

Enamel dials are, to this day, used sparingly because it is delicate, costly, and difficult to produce –however, Patek chose to use enamel on the reference 2526 for a different reason; it was meant to last forever since enamel dials are not susceptible to the oxidation and moisture damage that can harm the finish of metal dials. Additionally, the dial on the present lot is known as a first series dial, which is distinguishable by the small dimples in the enamel surface that can be seen underneath the top and bottom of each baton hour marker and the long applied baton index at 6 o'clock. These early dials have these dimples since the hour markers are actually set into the dial themselves using pins while all later dials have hour markers glued to the solid enamel surface.

Among the plethora of different variations, black dial 2526’s are the most appreciated because of the incredible rarity and unsurpassed appeal of the iconic black dial.

百達翡麗型號2526

黃金腕錶，備黑色琺琅錶盤，1955年製

附帶後補資料庫精粹

Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense.

Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band.

Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.

"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."