Patek Philippe

• cal. 12-600AT automatic nickel lever movement stamped twice with the seal of Geneva, 30 jewels, micrometer regulator, adjusted to heat, cold, isochronism and five positions, 18k gold engine-turned signed rotor • silvered dial, applied yellow gold Arabic 12 and faceted bullet indexes throughout, yellow gold dauphine hands, outer pearled minute track, subsidiary seconds • 18k yellow gold case, stepped bezel, downturned fluted lugs, 'PP' crown, screw-down case back • case, dial and movement signed • with an 18k yellow gold Patek Philippe buckle

The movement is running at the time of cataloguing, however it may require service soon. The dial is quite clean, with very small marks at 10 o'clock. The signature and subsidiary seconds are done in raised hard enamel. The case shows very nice definition, with surface scuffs throughout from wear. 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 1957 and sale on December 26th of that year. Together with a fitted presentation box.

This model, Ref. 2551, was produced from 1954 until 1960. It was replaced by Ref. 3433, which featured the cal. 27-460AT movement.

This model features the 12-600AT movement, an engineering marvel which made its debut at the 1953 Basel Fair. As the first automatic movement made by the firm, its debut was delayed until the Hans Wilsdorf's 1933 patent for a full-rotation self-winding movement expired. At the time of its release, it was one of the most highly-jeweled calibers for a time-only watch produced by Patek Philippe, or indeed any firm.