Patek Philippe

• cal 17-170 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 • white matte dial, Roman numerals, blued steel pierced foliate hands • 18k gold circular case chased with a hunting scene composed of five hunters on horseback in full dress, with seven hounds below all within a forest, the reverse scene depicting three hunters on horseback in the background watching a stag surrounded by five hounds, the scene signed W. Nerlich • case, dial and movement signed • with an 18k gold heavy link watch chain

The movement is running, however it may require service soon. There are no visible imperfections to the dial. The engraving on the case is executed with the utmost attention to detail and some parts of the engraving are quite sharp to the touch. There appears to be very little wear to the case.
"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 with engraved scene 1973 and sale on December 8th, 1978. Together with a Patek Philippe fitted presentation box.

Each piece belonging to Ref. 865 is unique and assigned its own variation number, as in the present example's designation as Ref. 865-18. This basic case acted as a blank canvas and could incorporate decorative variations at the customer's request such as cloisonné enamel portraits and scenes, chasing or relief scenes.

The relief work on the present example is the work of W. Nerlich. The exquisite detail of the hunting scene is quite impressive considering the relatively small size of the piece.

Examples of other watches bearing relief scenes can be found in Huber, M. & Banbery, A., Patek Philippe Watches, Second Edition, p. 166. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first time the present example has been offered at auction.