Patek Philippe

• cal 12-400 nickel lever movement stamped twice with the seal of Geneva, mono-metallic compensation balance, 18 jewels, micrometer regulator, adjusted to heat, cold, isochronism and 5 positions • silvered dial, applied gold dagger and faceted pentagonal indexes, gold dauphine hands, subsidiary seconds, outer pearled minute track • 18k gold water-resistant-type circular case, downturned lugs, screw back • case, dial and movement signed

The movement is running, however it may require service soon. It is stamped 'HOX,' suggesting it was made for the American market. The silvered finish on the dial is cracked throughout, giving the dial a crackled appearance. Some of the applied gold indexes have aged more than others. The case back has a very clean spun finish, probably as a result of a recent polishing. The edges of the screw back bear some scratches and the rest of the case is moderately scuffed. The left side of the bezel and the top left lug have a few dings. The strap of this wristwatch is made from an endangered species; please refer to Important Notices for further information.
"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."

Accompanied by an Extract from the Archives confirming production in 1954 and sale on October 25th of that year.

Produced between 1950 and 1967, Ref. 2509 differed from the classic Calatrava case with its slightly larger size and unusual screw-down case back. The cases for these models were produced by Taubert, the foremost supplier of waterproof cases. For a note on Taubert, see lot 184.

To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time the present lot has been offered at aution.