Patek Philippe

• cal 12-600 AT automatic movement stamped with the seal of Geneva, 30 jewels • enamel dial, applied yellow gold bullet indexes • PP crown, inscription to screw-down case back • case, dial and movement signed • Extract from the Archives confirming sale 14 July 1955

The watch is in very nice overall condition. The movement is running, however it might requires service soon. The dial shows no visible imperfections. The case shows some scuffs throughout and the outside of the back is engraved TO TROW WITH LOVE FROM BILL. The strap contains endangered species; please see 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."

Patek Philippe launched Ref. 2526, its first automatic model, in 1953 and ceased production in 1960. It has become an iconic piece among collectors in today's market due to the classic and handsome appearance of the enamel dial.

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.

For further discussion of the launch of Ref. 2526, see Reardon, J. Patek Philippe in America, p. 154. Examples of Ref. 2526 are illustrated in Huber, M. & Banbery, A., Patek Philippe Wristwatches, pp. 213 and 216-7. Cal. 12-600 is illustrated on p. 214 of the same text.