Property from the Original Owner
Patek Philippe
Reference 2526 first series, A yellow gold automatic wristwatch with enamel dial, Circa 1956 百達翡麗 2526型號 first series 黃金自動上鏈腕錶配琺瑯錶盤，約1956年製
Auction Closed
December 9, 06:15 PM GMT
Estimate
15,000 - 25,000 USD
Lot Details
Description
Reference 2526 first series
A yellow gold automatic wristwatch with enamel dial, Circa 1956
Dial: white enamel, first-series
Caliber: cal. 12'''600 automatic, 30 jewels
Movement number: 761'808
Case: 18k yellow gold, screw down case back
Closure: 18k yellow gold Patek Philippe buckle
Size: 36 mm diameter
Signed: case, dial and movement
Box: no
Papers: yes
Accessories: Patek Philippe Certificate of Origin dated June 4 1956, original retailer's receipt dated June 4 1956, and a Henry Stern Watch Agency service invoice dated 1997
We are pleased offer the present lot from the Original Owner, carefully preserved with the original sale receipt from Scherraus St Gallen, and the original certificate of origin. A full service was completed for the watch through The Henry Stern Watch Agency Inc.
Reference 2526, launched in 1953, was the first self-winding wristwatch made by Patek Philippe and its production ceased in 1960. The present lot belongs to the first series, made shortly after the launch of the model. Early examples such as this one are sought after for their dial and case variants which distinguish them from later examples.
It has become an iconic piece among collectors in today’s market due to the classic appearance of its case and the model's signature white enamel dial. Enamel dials are rarely found on wristwatches but are greatly favored for the 'ageless' finish of their surface which is not susceptible to the oxidation and moisture damage that can harm the finish of metal dials. Indeed, if well looked after, an enamel dial can maintain its original appearance indefinitely.