Patek Philippe

• cal. 12-400 manual winding jeweled movement • gilt dial, applied dot and dagger indexes, pink gold feuille hands, subsidiary seconds • 18k pink gold case, down-turned lugs, metal dust cap, screw down case back further signed FB for Taubert Fils • case, dial, and movement signed

The present lot contains endangered species which is subject to restrictions upon international export. Accordingly, the strap for this item will be removed prior to shipment outside the United States. Movement running at time of cataloging, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Case in good condition with only light wear to the edges and no signs of intentional polish. Crisp hallmarks and brushing to the case band still very apparent with scratches overall. Case back in good original condition with scratches. Dial in good condition with patina overall, lighter coloration to the edges and around indexes. Oxidation to the space ring in the case, movement in good condition with light scratches overall. Antimagnetic cover still in watch.
"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."

Accompanied by an Extract from the Archives confirming date of sale on 27 April 1953.

The inside of the case back is stamped 'FB', the maker's mark for Taubert & Fils. From the late 19th century, when it existed under the name Frères Borgel, Taubert & Fils was one of the finest Geneva-based case makers and specialized in water-resistant cases. They worked with many firms, including Patek Philippe and Vacheron Constantin.

The present lot, Ref. 2509, is the subsidiary seconds version of Ref. 2508, which features center seconds. Both feature the same large case shape and screw-down case back. Ref. 2509 was made from 1950 until approximately 1967.