Patek Philippe

• cal. 13''' manual winding nickel lever movement, 23 jewels, bi-metallic balance • silvered dial, applied Arabic numerals and enamel baton indexes, feuille hands, subsidiary dials for constant seconds and 30-minute register, outer ring calibrated for tachometer scale • 18k pink gold case, down-turned faceted lugs, snap back • case, dial and movement signed • with an 18k pink gold Patek Philippe buckle

The movement is running and the chronograph is functioning at the time of cataloguing, however it may benefit from a service soon. Dial gently refreshed most probably by Patek Philippe and with a small scratch to the 30-minute register. Case with light scuffs, crown probably not original. **The leather strap of this wristwatch is made from 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."

With its distinctive, angular, so-called "Spider" lugs and square buttons, the reference 1579 is among Patek Philippe’s most iconic chronograph wristwatches. The first known example of this model dates to 1943. Examples from the first generation, such as the present watch, have enamel baton indexes. Later versions of the model featured applied square indexes from approximately 1950 onwards. With its rare pink gold case, the current lot also features the collector’s favourite 'double railway' tracking to the dial.
According to our research this watch has never been offered at auction before. 
This reference is illustrated in Huber M., & Banbery A., Patek Philippe Wristwatches, 1998 edition, p. 265.