
Reference 1463 'Tasti Tondi' | A stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with Breguet numerals, Made in 1949
Live auction begins on:
December 8, 03:00 PM GMT
Estimate
300,000 - 500,000 USD
Lot Details
Description
Dial: silvered, Breguet numerals
Caliber: cal. 13"' mechanical, 23 jewels
Movement number: 867'604
Case: stainless steel, dust cover, screw-down case back
Case number: 653'507
Size: 34.5 mm diameter
Signed: case, dial and movement
Box: no
Papers: no
Accessories: Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming the year of manufacture in 1949 and date of sale on 10 November 1949
The Patek Philippe reference 1463, affectionately nicknamed "Tasti Tondi" by collectors for its distinctive round pushers, was introduced in 1940 and remained in production until 1969. It marked a significant evolution in the brand’s chronograph lineage. Prior to the 1463, Patek Philippe chronographs typically featured snap-on case backs and square pushers. The 1463 broke with tradition by introducing a screw-down case back and rounded pushers—innovations that not only modernized the design but also endowed the watch with water resistance. This advancement appealed to a discerning clientele seeking a timepiece that was as functional in leisure as it was refined in appearance.
Blending sporty utility with refined elegance, the reference 1463 has become one of the most coveted vintage Patek Philippe chronographs. Approximately 800 examples were produced through the end of its run in 1969, across three case materials: approximately 400 were crafted in yellow gold, 140 in pink gold, and 180 in stainless steel. A variety of dial configurations exist, but those fitted with applied Breguet numerals, which were mostly made for the US market, are among the most prized, and less than 100 of these dials were made across all three case types. The present watch was originally sold in the United States, evidenced not only by the “HOX” export mark on the balance bridge but also by the tachymeter scale calibrated in miles rather than kilometers—a rare detail found exclusively on Patek Philippe chronographs made for the U.S. market. We are further pleased to offer this watch with an Extract from the Archives confirming its Breguet numeral dial.