Patek Philippe

• 17'" lever movement, bi-metallic compensation balance, 18 jewels • white enamel dial with Empire motif center field, white enamel chapter ring with black painted Breguet numerals, Breguet hands, engine turned subsidiary dial for constant seconds, outer minute track • 18k yellow gold open faced case, hinged case back with engraved monogram • case and dial signed by maker, movement signed by maker and retailer

CASE Case in fair condition with wear and scuffs consistent with age and use. case overall with some light scuffing throughout. Bow with some shape inconsistency on the upper left area. A deeper scuff to the bezel area at 12. A small nick between 10 and 11. Lip to the bezel with a small indentation and wear. Case band with heavy scuffing and scratches likely from opening and closing. Case back with scuffing throughout. Small round dent close to the hinge. Monogrammed 'GCJ.' DIAL Dial is very attractive and well preserved. Some light debris and wear. A small scratch to the Breguet numeral 8. Some small areas of pigment loss to Breguet numerals under a loupe. Some deepening to the color of the finely chased center and sub dial. Oxidation to the blued steel Breguet hands. MOVEMENT Movement is operating but may require routine service at the purchaser's discretion. 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.
"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 an Extract from the Archives confirming production with 'Empire' style chased dial and Breguet numerals in 1913 and sale on November 4th, 1914. Prior to their acquisition, Patek Philippe ordered many of their dials from Stern Frères SA, arguably the finest dial makers in the world. 

The present example is with an extremely well preserved dial, probably by Stern Frères. The dial is particularly interesting for its unusual enamel dial with a highly engraved gold center field in the Empire style and hand painted Breguet numerals. 

The Empire style of design came about in the early 19th century and takes its name from the period of the First French Empire and the rule of Napoleon Bonaparte. The neo-classical aspects of the style were very popular throughout Europe and its themes were revived again and again in the decades that followed.

Julius C. Walk began his career as a watchmaker and jeweler at age 14 in Indianapolis.  In 1867, he began working for a high end jewelry store, and eventually became partner of Bingham and Walk in 1877.  Once his business partner died, he re-named the firm Julius C. Walk & Sons.  The firm was an agent for high end watch makers, such as Patek Philippe.