Patek Philippe

Launched in 1953, the reference 2526 houses Patek Philippe's first ever self-winding calibre 12-600AT. Widely considered the finest and most beautiful automatic movements ever made by any brand and from any period. Only produced for 8 years over a handful of references, its most successful home was found in the Baumgartner made reference 2526 case, with its 35.5mm diameter and exquisitely constructed dials.

The 1st series of the reference 2526 is distinguished by its twice-baked enamel dial and gold indices set into the enamel using pins or feet. These flared holes under the numerals give the dial an extraordinary 3 dimensional quality and add to the allure of these early examples. Whilst most of these 1st series examples have ivory/eggshell dials, a handful, like the current watch were produced with rare factory black dials.

Black dialed Patek Philippe’s from this era, confirmed on their extract form the archives like this example are some of the most desirable examples ever made, rarely coming to market and are a collector's dream. The high contrast between the gold case, luscious deep black dial and gold applied indices make its appeal obviously from first inspection.

According to research, as few as 10 examples of the first series 2526 were fitted with a black dial.

Elevating the current watch further is its gold bracelet. Often referred as the "lobster", it is the most sought-after and collectible version of the bracelet made for the 2526.

Presented on behalf of the family of the original owner, this example of the 2526 with this extraordinary combination of the black dial and lobster bracelet is a most important discovery for the international market.