Patek Philippe

* cal. 27-460 Q automatic nickel lever movement, 37 jewels, free-sprung Gyromax balance, adjusted to heat, cold, isochronism and 5 positions, 18k gold rotor * silvered dial with applied white gold indexes, white gold dauphine hands, apertures for day and month, subsidiary dial indicating date with fan-form aperture for moon-phases * 18k white gold circular case with sloped bezel, angular lugs and snap back * case, dial and movement signed * with an 18k white gold PP buckle

Automatic movement is running , month, day, date and moon-phases advancing while cataloguing. Dial looks nice and clean. The hallmark on case back slightly rubbed. It is our opinion that the case might have been gently polished, however Lugs and case are sharp and retain their original definition. Case with minor discoloured patch and minor scuffs but hardly noticeable. A few minor scuffs on the plastic top but hardly noticeable. Overall appears in excellent condition. **The strap of this wristwatch is made from an 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."

Accompanied by an Extract from the Archives confirming production in 1979 with silvered dial, applied indexes in white gold and sale on July 7th, 1981.

The model, Ref. 3448, was first launched in 1962.  At that time, it was the first automatic perpetual calendar wristwatch in the market, fitted with one of the most sophisticated automatic movements, calibre 27-460.  It was ultimately succeeded in 1981 by Ref. 3450 which differs by adding a leap year indication aperture.  The highly acclaimed Ref. 3448 was discontinued in 1985, paving the way for modern automatic perpetual calendars.  It is believed that only 586 examples were ever made, and the majority of this model was produced in 18k yellow gold cases.  The present example sculpted in 18k white gold, is made rarer by its exceptionally pristine condition.