Patek Philippe

This exceptional Patek Philippe reference 420, manufactured in 1929, is an especially rare example of the model, crafted in stainless steel and distinguished by the Asprey signature on the dial. The collaboration between Patek Philippe and Asprey was highly selective at the time and rare examples that combine both signatures are specially coveted.

Reference 420 occupies a significant place in Patek Philippe’s early wristwatch history. Produced at the turn of the 1930s, it reflects the manufacturer’s transition from traditional pocket-watchmaking to the new era of refined rectangular wristwatches shaped by Art Deco aesthetics. Most surviving examples of the reference have appeared in precious metals, particularly yellow gold, and are already considered rare. The appearance of a stainless-steel version elevates the rarity considerably, as steel was used only sparingly by Patek Philippe in this period and typically only for special orders. Early steel executions across the brand’s production are among the scarcest and most desirable configurations, making this watch an exceptional discovery.

The Asprey signature adds a further layer of distinction, symbolising not only the quality of the piece but the exclusivity of the relationship between the two houses. Its original owner was a prominent British figure whose career placed him near the centre of major national and international developments of the early and mid-twentieth century, suggesting the calibre of clientele served through Asprey at the time. Although his identity cannot be publicly detailed, his status underscores the significance of the watch’s original commission.

Equally remarkable is the continuity of its provenance. Retained by the family of the original owner from its purchase in 1929 until the present day, the watch has never circulated through the broader market. Such unbroken lineage offers a level of authenticity and preservation seldom encountered in early Patek Philippe wristwatches and enhances the historical value of an already rare reference.

Combining early Patek Philippe design, an Asprey-signed dial, an extremely uncommon stainless-steel case, and nearly a century of single-family ownership, this reference 420 stands as an extraordinary example of early twentieth-century horology and a truly rare opportunity for collectors.