Patek Philippe

• cal. 17''' circular nickel lever movement, 18 jewels, bi-metallic balance • ivory-white dial, attributed to A. Dufaux, the hours represented by the 12 signs of the zodiac, pierced hands • 18k yellow gold, platinum and enamel octagonal-form case, the bezels heightened by opaque ivory enamel, the stepped edges in opaque blue enamel, with losses, the case back centered by a platinum-framed cartouche with enamel portrait of Lafayette beside his horse signed LA over a guilloché background overlaid in translucent blue enamel • case, dial and movement signed     

Movement running at time of cataloging, however not tested for the accuracy of time and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Light spotting to the cream enamel on the case overall. Loss of blue enamel to the case band and bow overall. The enamel painting to the case back with several surface scratches to the left, bottom left, and top right. Dial in very good condition with coloration consistent with age.
"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 with LaFayette portrait and zodiac dial on April 22, 1919.

It is exceedingly rare to encounter Patek Philippe pocket watches in non-circular format. Indeed, students of the subject typically find unusual shapes in smaller-sized pendant watches. In the newly published Patek Philippe Museum book, Patek Philippe, Vol. I, Geneva: 2014, there just a single octagonal watch, case number 601069, featured (page 107). Extensive research into the canon of Patek Philippe's production reveals that at most, only eight such watches have appeared. 

While the shape alone of the present lot is unusual, the watch further boasts two additional characteristics not held by any other known Patek Philippe watches: a chapter ring denoted by the signs of the Zodiac and a portrait of General Lafayette. In the realm of rare decorative Patek Philippe watches, these three elements combine to present a piece whose importance cannot be overstated. 

In both French and American history, Lafayette stands out as a remarkable figure. The Marquis de LaFayette (September 6, 1757 - May 20, 1834) was born in central France and began his illustrious military career at the age of 13. Taken with the belief of American independence, LaFayette traveled to America of his own accord in 1777, and was soon commissioned as a Major General to assist the colonial armies. LaFayette served George Washington, and fought in several battles from 1777-78, including Valley Forge and Barren Hill. While he also served during the French Revolution and the July Revolution, LaFayette continued to travel between France and America over his lifetime.