Patek Philippe

Produced from 1961-1968, the 'Ricochet' is perhaps among the most famous and recognizable Gilbert Albert and Patek Philippe collaborations. In the 1960s, Patek Philippe worked with the Geneva jeweler Gilbert Albert to design a series of wrist and pocket watches with innovative asymmetric cases. One of the inspirations for Albert's unusually shaped pieces was his admiration for modern sculpture, particularly works by Brancusi and Mondrian.

From our research, no more than 10 examples of the Reference 789/1 has returned to market. Of these, only a handful are known to bear a second signature for a retailer such as the present lot, which is double signed for the renowned Madison Avenue, New York Jeweler, D. Gumbiner. The family jeweler was in operation from the 1930s – 1970s and carried significant Swiss brands including Patek Philippe, Ch.Meylan, Universal and more. Many impressive Patek Philippe double signed pieces have returned to market from Gumbiner including the following references: 1463, 1526, and 2499.

The present lot is offered in wonderfully preserved condition, retaining its exciting textures to the case and dial. The movement is engraved with the ‘HOX’ mark, especially stamped for watches to be exported to the United States for sale, which further supports the American retailer’s dial signature.