Patek Philippe

Illustrated in Patek Philippe Wristwatches by Huber & Banbery, Volume 2, Second Edition, p. 134

The 1930s saw a revitalization of Swiss watch making and design despite The Great Depression, culminating in some of the most interesting case designs that emerged during the 1940s and 50s. 

The present Reference 2443 is one such example of Patek Philippe’s creativity during the middle of the 20th century. Known for its distinct lugs and rectangular pagoda-like case the 2443 is a rare timepiece that exemplifies Patek Philippe's signature aesthetic of understated luxury. Produced from 1948 until at least 1958, the low production of only a few hundred pieces makes the 2443 an exceptionally rare timepiece. Of the few hundred examples produced, only around 150 were crafted in yellow gold, around 80 in pink gold, and around 30 in platinum, making our present 2443 one of only around 80 examples to have survived to the present day. 

One of the first important case makers behind many of Patek Philippe’s rare and collectible designs from the period was the workshop of George Coisier, registered as Geneva Key No. 5, who was responsible for the case of our present Reference 2443. Croisier is most notable for their know-how in stainless steel and was thus the maker of choice for some of the most coveted stainless steel references as the case of the legendary steel Reference 1518. 

Accompanied by an Extract from the Patek Philippe Archives confirming the year of manufacture in 1954 and date of sale on 13 October 1956, the present 2443 in pink gold is a rare and notable example of Patek Philippe’s mid-century ingenuity.