Patek Philippe

• cal. 9-90 manual winding nickel lever movement, 18 jewels • silvered dial, applied gold Arabic, faceted square and baton numerals, subsidiary seconds • rectangular case with massive partially hooded flared lugs, snap back • case, dial and movement signed • with an 18k gold Patek Philippe buckle

The movement is running at the time of cataloguing, however it may require service soon. The dial has likely been refinished, with some weakness to the signature. The case is in good condition with good definition to this unusual shape and a strong hallmark to the hand near 10 o'clock. Some light scuffs from wear. The width is 24 mm. The strap of this watch 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."

With an Extract from the Archives confirming sale on January 31st, 1951.

This model, Ref. 2471, sometimes referred to as the 'Bear Claw' or 'Ram's Horn', was first launched in 1950. It is one of the largest and rarest rectangular models produced by Patek Philippe at this time. The present example is made particularly attractive by virtue of its pristine and well defined case.

The case of the watch was made by Markowski, one of the finest case makers based in Geneva who specialized in unusually-shaped cases including the 'Eiffel Tower,' Ref. 2441, and the 'Banana,' Ref. 2442.

For an illustration of a similar example, see Huber, M. & Banbery, A., Patek Philippe Wristwatches, Vol. 2, Second Edition, p. 132, pl. 185.