Patek Philippe

• 17''' movement, 18 jewels, gold cuvette • gilt dial, stylized Arabic numerals, interior enamel ring, Breguet hands • bezels, band, bow and pendant decorated in tones of blue, green and white enamel, snap case back centered by GTB monogram in black, blue and green enamel • case and dial signed by maker, cuvette and movement signed for George Brodnax, Memphis • Extract from the Archives confirming sale 29 Jan 1924 confirming all ornamentation and monogram

The movement is running, though with inconsistency, and the hands function inconsistently as well. As such, it will require service. The dial shows some slightly darker discoloration to the chapter ring between 4 and 6 o'clock, and some lighter spots throughout. At 12 o'clock there is a scratch to the outer chapter ring. There are some very minimal, slight losses to the enamel in the bezel, and some scuffs to the case back. Overall a beautiful and historically interesting piece.
"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."

The present lot is a good example of Patek Philippe's work to create individually customized piece at the request of important clients. It is interesting to note that while it is not uncommon to see retailer's signatures on the firm's watches, this particular piece was in fact made for the owner of the Brodnax jewelry store. As such, the George Brodnax signatures on the cuvette and movement are in fact personalized signatures for the owner of the watch.

George Taylor Brodnax, Sr. was the owner and president of Brodnax Jewelry, 39 South Main St, Memphis, TN, at the time the largest jewelry store in the South. After the death of George Sr. in 1917, ownership of the firm was passed on to his son, George Taylor Brodnax, Jr. (1900-1939).

The date of manufacture in 1921 suggests that the watch may have been commissioned as a 21st birthday gift to George Jr., as a piece that would evoke the memory of his father and the pride in the business passed down from father to son.

The watch has been held in the possession of descendants of the Brodnax family until this point. Sotheby's is pleased to offer this piece for the first time at auction.

For similar watches from this period, see Huber, M. & Banbery, A., Patek Philippe Watches, p. 162-165.