Patek Philippe

• cal. 27-460Q automatic nickel lever movement stamped twice with the Geneva seal, 37 jewels, free-sprung Gyromax balance, adjusted to heat, cold, isochronism and 5 positions, 18k yellow gold signed rotor • silvered dial with applied faceted square and baton numerals, dauphine hands, pearled minute track, apertures for day and month in English, subsidiary dial indicating date combined with aperture for moon-phases • 18k yellow gold case with angular down-turned lugs, snap-on back • case, dial and movement signed • with a detachable 18k yellow gold Gay Frères bracelet and folding clasp

Automatic movement running and calendar functions are operating while cataloguing, one case screw shows signs of corrosion and we would recommend a service. Dial is clean and in good overall condition, the Patek Philippe signature and numerals ( 25 & 29 ) to the date are slightly worn. Case has been repolished and the sides have been re-satin finished, there are light scuffs and scratches throughout. Solder repair to bracelet section above 12. Drill holes to inside of lugs to accommodate bracelet, these are not visible when the bracelet is on and could be laser filled. REF 3448J MVT 1119094 CASE 320316. The bracelet is year stamped 1966.
"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 1968 and sale on January 7th, 1969. Together with original Patek Philippe instructions for use in German.

Reference 3448 was manufactured between 1962 and 1981, it was not only the first automatic perpetual calendar wristwatch made in series by Patek Philippe, but the first by any company. As the successor to the 2497 and 2438-1, the 3448, with its more angular design, represented a departure from the classic rounded cases and lugs of previous complication references. This was a reflection of the change in wristwatch design more generally, which was altering during the 1960s and 1970s. Consequently, the 3448 forms a bridge between the vintage perpetual calendar wristwatches and the more modern examples that followed it.