Patek Philippe

This rare brass and rosewood solar desk clock, accompanied by a Patek Philippe Certificate of Origin, an extract from the archives confirming its manufacture in 1969 and sale in 1970, along with a presentation case and outer packaging, is a remarkable example of the brand’s innovative spirit during a transformative period in horology.

In the mid-20th century, Patek Philippe, like many Swiss watchmakers, faced the growing challenge of advancing technology. To remain at the forefront, the brand established its Electronics Division in 1948 under the leadership of Georges Delessert, focusing on cutting-edge timekeeping technologies including nuclear, electronic, and photoelectric methods. This move was prescient, as the rise of quartz technology in the following decades would disrupt traditional watchmaking.

Patek Philippe’s exploration of photoelectric or solar timekeeping was ground-breaking. By utilising light-sensitive cells to power a clock’s winding mechanism, the firm showcased its ability to blend traditional craftsmanship with emerging technology. Early advertisements from the 1950s boasted the clocks' ability to run for 24 hours with just one hour of light exposure. The innovation was widely celebrated, with notable exhibitions at prestigious venues such as the Museum of Science in Boston and the 1955 World Symposium on Applied Solar Energy in Arizona.

This desk clock represents a pivotal moment in Patek Philippe’s history, merging tradition and forward-thinking innovation. It is not only a functional timepiece but also a testament to the brand’s commitment to technological exploration.