Patek Philippe

* cal. 12-120 manual wind movement, 18 jewels * silvered dial, applied gold Arabic and dot numerals, apertures for day and month, subsidiary dial for constant seconds combined with moon-phases * concave bezel, snap back * case, dial and movement signed * modern 18k yellow gold Patek Philippe buckle * Extract from the Archives confirming sale on 7 June 1951

A very nice example. The movement is running and the calendar is advancing properly at the time of cataloguing, however it may require service soon. The dial appears original with some spotting between 7 and 8 o'clock next to the moon-phase aperture, and also two small scuffs just above the day and month apertures. One of these smudges is not visible in the catalogue photograph due to the lighting; for a better view, please ask the department for further photographs. The signature appears original and is fully intact. The dial has likely not been touched. The case shows good definition throughout, with a very crisp 18k mark to the outside of the case back that is only very slightly rubbed at the top, and a crisp goldmark on the band. There are light surface scuffs throughout, the most noticeable being above the crown on the band, but the watch is overall in very nice, original condition. The strap of this watch contains 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."

Reference 1526 was manufactured from 1941 until 1952 and, together with reference 1518, was the first perpetual calendar wristwatch produced in series by any company.

According to research, just over 200 pieces were made over the dozen years of production.

For a discussion of Ref. 1526, see Reardon, J., Patek Philippe in America, p. 114. Also see Huber, M., & Banbery, A. Patek Philippe Wristwatches, Second Edition, pp. 282-283.