PATEK PHILIPPE

• 19''' three-quarter plate nickel lever movement, bi-metallic compensation balance, 31 jewels, some carried in screwed gold chatons, precision regulator, minute repeater striking on two gongs, pink gold cuvette • white enamel dial, radial Arabic numerals, outer chapter ring calibrated for 60 units in red, Louis XV-style hands, recessed subsidiary seconds • 18k pink gold case with gaudron finish to band, engraved monogram to hinged back • case, dial and movement signed by maker, cuvette signed by maker and retailer

The movement is fully wound but when impulse is given the balance will run for a time and stop. It will need to be serviced, cleaned and overhauled. The dial is nice, however there is a small hairline near 2 o'clock. Otherwise it is intact. The case is rather rubbed, which is visible particularly on the monogram to the back. The monogram reads 'FB' and inside the back lid is engraved 'FB from MRB, Dec. 23rd 1887'. Overall the case shows general wear and light scuffs. The box that goes along with the watch is most likely not the original box, as it seems to be designed for a hunting cased watch, rather than an openfaced watch.
"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 1883 and sale on September 17th of the following year. Together with a fitted wooden presentation box.

Our research indicates that the present lot is one of the five earliest minute repeating split seconds chronograph watches to have come to auction, and of those, it is one of two open-faced examples. The earliest piece with these complications to be offered at auction was produced in 1879.

The scripted Patek Philippe signature to the dial is of particular note, as it typifies pieces from this period. Later examples are signed in block print. The present example is particularly well preserved and an excellent example of Patek Philippe's late-19th century work.