Patek Philippe

In 1941 Patek Philippe officially launched its first production series perpetual calendar wristwatch, reference 1526 alongside the reference 1518. For the first time ever there was a perpetual calendar available on the market. The reference was in production until 1952 when it was replaced the reference 2497.

According to literature, 210 pieces were made, the majority being cased in yellow gold, far fewer in pink gold and 1 example identified in stainless steel. There have been only 34 examples identified back to the market including the present watch in pink gold.

Purchased by the current owner back in 1997 at auction in Geneva, the watch has slept since this date not being used in almost 25 years. The case is in extremely well preserved condition with thick lugs and strong hallmarks to the band at 2 o’clock and under the lug at 7 o’clock. The dial has easily recognizable tarnishing which gives the watch a lot of character. It is more common than not for dials of watches from this period to tarnish in this way due to the snap on case back that would permit the elements through the case construction.