PATEK PHILIPPE | REF 2497PINK GOLD PERPETUAL CALENDAR WRISTWATCH WITH CENTRE SECONDS, MOON PHASES AND VICHET CASEMADE IN 1953

Dial: silveredCalibre: cal. 27SC Q manual winding, 18 jewelsMovement number: 888'017Case: 18k pink gold, snap-on backCase number: 674'390Closure: Patek Philippe crocodile strap and 18k pink gold buckleDimensions: 36.7 mmSigned: case, dial and movementAccessories: Patek Philippe presentation case and Extract from the Archives confirming date of sale on August 18th, 1971

MVT: is running at the time of cataloging and the perpetual calendar advancing. CASE: in exceptional condition retaining its polished and brushed surfaces as well as incredible fluting to the lugs. The hallmark on the back is very crisp and there is very light surface wear only. There is a second hallmark to the case underneath the case back. DIAL: in great condition. Very minute blemishes are visible when closely examining the dial, such as a very fine scratch between 10 and 11 o'clock as well as a ultra fine surface mark around 2 o'clock. Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense. Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band. Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.
"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."

This very fine and rare reference 2497 first series comes in extraordinary condition with exquisite proportions and incredibly well-defined fluting to the lugs.

The reference 2497 is historically important and was produced from 1951 until it was discontinued in 1963. It was the world's first perpetual calendar wristwatch with centre seconds and remained the only one in the history of Patek Philippe until the introduction of reference 5050 in 1993, which was an impressive 30 years after the production of the 2497 ceased. A rare and sought-after reference, less than 200 pieces were made and only around 20 of them in pink gold according to research. 

Reference 2497 can be divided into a first and second series, depending on the case maker. First series cases were made by Emile Vichet and second series cases made by Wenger. The case by Wenger featured a domed back and slightly shorter lugs while the Vichet case is distinguished by its flat case back and longer, more prominent lugs that are shaped like claws which perfectly match the concave bezel. First series examples are much rarer since only the earliest 40 or 50 watches of this reference were equipped with Vichet cases.

The present first series example has the Geneva master case maker key number 9 engraved inside the case back. Without a doubt this pink gold example with its extremely well-defined case provides a very rare opportunity to acquire something exceptional for one's collection.