Patek Philippe

• cal. R27 PS QA, 44 jewels, 22k mini-rotor • silvered dial with engine-turned center, applied triangular baton indexes, inner minute track, subsidiary seconds dial, and apertures for the days of the week, date, and month, dauphine hands • case with stepped bezel, concave and curved lugs, snap on sapphire display back • case, dial and movement signed • platinum Patek Philippe buckle

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. All functions work properly. Chiming is in phase. Case is in very good condition with no noticeable scratches, scuffs or swirls. Dial in excellent condition. Watch was recently opened from its factory seal.
"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 a wooden presentation box, cardboard factory service box, factory sealed bag, Certificate of Origin, additional case back and setting pin in seal, and large leather documents folder.

The elegant design of the Ref. 5033, with its broad ‘coussin-tortue’ case, is inspired by the Art Deco period. The arrangement of the calendar apertures is unusual, yet reminiscent of famous historical Patek Philippe models with triple aperture calendars such as the unique Calatrava no. 828.665, made in 1941 and the platinum rectangular no. 860.182, made in 1938. (The two aforementioned watches are illustrated in Huber, M. and Banbery, A., Patek Philippe Wristwatches, Second Edition, p. 278.)

However, it is the combination of the annual calendar complication with that of the minute repetition that defines the Ref. 5033 model. Indeed, it is the first time that Patek Philippe combined these two complications in a wristwatch. The Ref. 5033’s movement incorporates the innovative calibre R27 PS QA, a masterpiece of mechanical complexity which comprises an astonishing 483 individual parts. The exceptionally sonorous nature of the repetition is achieved by the use of extra long ‘cathedral’ gongs, made from a special alloy that provides a rich and long lasting tone when struck by the movement’s polished repeating hammers. 

The present lot is being offered in its original factory seal from a private collection and has never before been offered at auction.