PATEK PHILIPPE | A FINE AND RARE YELLOW GOLD OPEN FACED WATCH WITH POWER RESERVE INDICATION MADE IN 1910GENEVA OBSERVATORY CHRONOMETER 1ST PRIZE OBTAINED IN 1915

Dial: enamel, Breguet numeralsCaliber: 19'" ligne 'Extra' movement, 21 jewelsMovement number: 161196Case: 18k yellow gold, inscribed cuvette, concealed hinged monogrammed case backCase number: 401489Size: diameter 50 mmSigned: case, cuvette, dial and movementAccessories: Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming the year of manufacture in 1910, and sale on November 27, 1916. Additionally confirming that the timepiece was awarded first prize by the Geneva Astronomical Observatory in 1915

CASE Approximately 102.5 grams. Case in overall very good condition with light surface wear and light scuffing. PPC stamp to the bow is legible. Gold mark to the stem and PPC stamp to the bow slightly rubbed. Case back with light surface wear and normal scuffing. Case back is monogrammed, possibly "RN." Cuvette is inscribed for the Geneva Observatory award: "Awarded First Prize Geneva Astronomical Observatory Timing Contest 1915-1916." DIAL Dial in overall excellent condition with no visible hairlines. Some very light signs of patina at the outermost perimeter of the sub dials. Some light dust. MOVEMENT Movement plates with some light surface wear. Power reserve function operating. 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."

It is extraordinary to note that the present watch passed the rigorous tests of l'Observatoire de Geneve in 1915. Testing at the Geneva Observatory initially lasted 40 days and required the watch to be tested in different positions and at varying temperatures to check its ability to maintain outstanding accuracy. Accuracy in timekeeping has been critical to advances in Science and, in 1873, the Observatory in Geneva held its first annual Chronometer competition. Patek Philippe won the much coveted 1st prize for the first time in 1884.