Patek Philippe

• cal. 17-170 finely skeletonized gilt lever movment, 18 jewels, mono-metallic balance • skeletonized dial • 18k yellow gold case, diamond-set bezel, band and pendant, bezel further decorated by cabochon sapphire • movement and case signed

Manual winding movement running while cataloguing. Skeletonized dial looks nice and clean. Case with minor scuffs from normal wear. Overall appears in very good condition. A highly recommended rare piece. Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time keeping and a service might be required at the buyer's expense.
"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 18k yellow gold, diamond and cabochon sapphire-set Patek Philippe stand and an Extract from the Archives confirming production in 1980 and sale on 14th December 1981. The Extract from the Archives further states that total diamond and sapphire weight is 6.02 carats.

In addition to highly complicated timepieces, decorated watches are one of Patek Philippe’s specialties in which rare handcrafts turn into works of art.  The production of ref 916 watch successfully applied two of the most challenging skills – engraving and gem-setting to one timepiece. 

Engraving is an inimitable talent that creates neat, shining lines and a subtle play of light, very much like an inspired art upon a difficult metal canvas.  The highest level of engraving skill is undoubtedly works of skeletonized movements. They offer the wearers a glimpse of the complex choreography of intricate wheels, levers and springs inside a watch. The practice of decorating watchcases by setting them with precious stones, particularly diamonds, gradually spread to embrace every part of the watch. The gem-setter works with a powerful binocular microscope with the difficulty of performing a manual operation without being able to see his own hands.  The goal is to ensure the work is as neat, tidy and smooth as possible so even the most delicate fabric should be able to glide over it without snagging, and that gems will remain in place and be dazzling forever.

Not only is its precious craftsmanship unrivalled, but this rare example also comes with its original stand and is preserved in excellent condition, making it the dream piece for connoisseurs who appreciate the art of meticulosity.