Patek Philippe

• cal. 9-90 manual winding nickel lever movement, 18 jewels • silvered dial, applied yellow gold Arabic numerals and faceted baton indexes, 18k yellow gold Feuille hands, subsidiary seconds • 18k yellow gold rectangular case with flared sides, inscribed snap on case back • case, dial, and movement signed • with an 18k yellow gold Patek Philippe buckle

The movement is running at time of cataloging, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time or duration of the power reserve and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement. Case in overall good condition with wear, surface scuffing and oxidation consistent with age and use. Case bands with normal surface scuffing. Some heavier oxidation surrounding the Calatrava crown. Snap on case back inscribed "Robert E Hightown, Thomaston, GA, Christmas, 1949." Case back with deeper oxidation and some light surface marks, but in overall well preserved condition. Hallmark between upper lugs is crisp is visible. Dial in overall very good condition with light debris. Some heavier marking/debris to the upper left corner which may benefit from cleaning. Movement in very good condition. Accompanied by Henri Stern Watch Agency, Inc service documents dated 1992, 1997, 2002, and 2004. Three service receipts note that the service included replacing the dial with a new dial.
"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."

Accompanied by a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming the date of sale on October 25th, 1949. Together with Henri Stern Watch Agency, Inc service receipts dated 1992, 1997, 2002, and 2004. 

Ref. 2442 was produced from 1949 to approximately 1960. Fewer than 200 examples were produced over this time, making the present lot extremely rare and attractive for collectors. The present lot is especially well preserved with plump and voluminous flared sides, and a crisp hallmark to the upper lug band. 

The present lot was gifted to Mr. Robert E. Hightower, whose distinguished family founded the Thomaston Mills Inc. textile company in 1899.

Ref. 2442 is illustrated in Martin Huber & Alan Banbery, Patek Philippe Wristwatches, 1998, 2nd ed., p. 136.