Patek Philippe

18k, damascened nickel lever movement (cal.27-460), stamped twice with the seal of Geneva, 30 jewels, free-sprung gyromax balance, adjusted to heat, cold, isochronism and 5 positions, 18k gold engine turned rotor bearing the Calatrava cross, silvered dial with enamel printed signature, applied baton numerals, subsidiary seconds, circular two-piece case with stepped bezel, down-turned lugs, screw-down case back, PP embossed crown, case, dial and movement signed, with a detachable 18k gold Patek Philippe thick reeded link bracelet and matching clasp embossed PP, accompanied by Certificate of Origin and original presentation case and an Extract from the Archives.

Production of reference 3429 began in 1960 and ceased around 1969.

This wristwatch incorporates the legendary calibre 27-460 with gold engine turned rotor. The 27-460 is one of the most popular automatic movements ever produced by Patek Philippe. Interestingly, the standard production used 37 jewels, this watch bears 30 jewels, the same as found in its predecessor the calibre 12 600 AT. As a result, this movement can be considered a rare transition between the two calibres.

Whilst clearly signed Patek Philippe, the maker’s mark stamped on the bracelet is indisctinct but seems to be PG within a lozenge. If this is the case, then the bracelet maker would be Ponti Gennari. Bracelets by Gennari are very rare and of extremely high quality. Interestingly, the Patek Philippe Museum is now in the former Ponti Gennari building.