Lot 57
  • 57

PATEK PHILIPPE | REF 1578 GMA YELLOW GOLD WRISTWATCH COMMISSIONED FOR GENERAL MOTORS - GENERAL MOTORS OVERSEAS MADE IN 1962

Estimate
10,000 - 15,000 USD
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Description

  • Patek Philippe
  • REF 1578 GMA YELLOW GOLD WRISTWATCH COMMISSIONED FOR GENERAL MOTORS - GENERAL MOTORS OVERSEAS MADE IN 1962
Dial: blackCaliber: cal. 27-AM manual winding movement, 18 jewelsMovement number: 731746Case: 18k pink gold, spider lugs, personally inscribed snap on case backCase number: 2625772Size: diameter 35 mmSigned: case, dial and movementAccessories: Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming the date of sale on July 26, 1962

Condition

CASE The case is in overall good condition with wear consistent with age and use. Spider lugs have retained their well proportioned shape and chamfers. Gold marks to the sides of lugs are lightly rubbed but present and legible. Case with light scuffing overall and some very small nicks under close observation. Crystal glazing with scuffing throughout. Case back is personally inscribed "GMC-GMOO G.R.McNAB 1939-1964." DIAL Black dial is attractive overall with some light wear to the applied indexes and hands. Some light dust. MOVEMENT 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. ***Please be advised that the bands on this watch are made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) and thus not sold with the watch, they are for display purposes only. We will remove these bands prior to international shipping.***
"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."

Catalogue Note

The present lot was especially commissioned by General Motors, General Motors Overseas Operations. It is not uncommon that one's meritorious service would be rewarded and celebrated with the gift of a fine timepiece, but to be given a Patek Philippe must have been a resoundingly joyous occasion! To the best of our knowledge, in the mid 1950's GMOO began commissioning a special timepiece to be given to their top executives upon their retirement. The firm assigned an additional text to the standard reference number, 1578GM.  The reference itself is quite modern for its time, with a larger diameter and highly attractive spider lugs to the case made by Wenger. Black dials, as on the present lot, were especially rare and offered for the series made for General Motors. To the best of our knowledge, just over 100 pieces were manufactured with special inscriptions to GMOO executives. The present lot was cherished by the owner, and we are pleased to offer it on behalf of the family of this original owner.