- 126
Patek Philippe
Description
- A STAINLESS STEEL WRISTWATCH WITH INDIRECT SECONDS1948 REF 96A MVT 861803 CASE 653845
- Leather
- diameter 31 mm
Condition
"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."
Catalogue Note
The present watch is fitted with the beautiful cal. 12'''SC movement, which features indirect center seconds. This variation on the cal. 12 movement was developed and assembled by the famous Geneva watch maker, Victorin Piguet. The firm conceived of the addition of a separate bridge so that the seconds hand was indirectly driven.
This example shows the lengths to which Patek Philippe went in order to assure its customers the highest quality service and techniques of the day. Working with such masters as Victorin Piguet and others, Patek Philippe was able to offer cutting-edge watches in all eras.
Cal. 12 SC is illustrated in Huber, M. & Banbery, A., Patek Philippe Wristwatches, Vol. II, Second Edition, p. 144.
The inside of the case back is stamped 'FB', the maker's mark for Taubert & Fils. For a note on Taubert & Fils, see lot 117.