Important Watches

View full screen - View 1 of Lot 2301. A pink gold minute repeating split seconds chronograph openface keyless lever watch with enamel dial, Retailed by Tiffany & Co., Circa 1896.

Patek Philippe

A pink gold minute repeating split seconds chronograph openface keyless lever watch with enamel dial, Retailed by Tiffany & Co., Circa 1896

Estimate

200,000 - 400,000 HKD

Lot Details

Description

Patek Philippe

A pink gold minute repeating split seconds chronograph openface keyless lever watch with enamel dial, Retailed by Tiffany & Co., Circa 1896

Dial: white enamel

Calibre: 16’’’, mechanical, bi-metalic compensation balance, jewelled

Movement number: 97’677

Case: 18k pink gold polished case with concealed hinge, hinged cuvette engraved with inscription

Case number: 97’677

Size: 45 mm diameter

Signed: case, dial and movement signed Tiffany & Co.

Accessories: none

The present watch combines two complications that represent the highest level of watchmaking from the golden age of technical horology. Its 16-ligne complicated movement is finished to Patek Philippe’s highest standards, while the case, made for Tiffany & Co. in the United States, exemplifies the finest American casemaking of the period. The case remains in very good condition, with its concealed hinge displaying a notably smooth and flat surface. The cuvette is inscribed “Geo. Westinghouse Jr., from his Father & Mother, Christmas 1898”, indicating that the watch was once in the private collection of George Westinghouse Jr.

George Westinghouse Jr. was an American inventor, engineer and industrial entrepreneur based in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, best known for his pioneering role in the development and application of alternating-current power systems. He was also a discerning watch collector who owned numerous fine timepieces and commissioned rare watches through Tiffany & Co. These included a notable Patek Philippe 18k gold minute repeating jumping seconds pocket watch dating from 1871, now preserved at the Heinz History Center in Pittsburgh. Another pocket watch, presented to his wife in 1871, was a finely engraved Patek Philippe 18k gold concentric day and date pendant watch. A similar example, made for Isabella II, Queen of Spain, in 1871, is preserved in the Patek Philippe Museum.

During this period, only individuals of high social standing or considerable wealth were granted the privilege of commissioning bespoke timepieces directly from the finest watchmakers and retailers. Even when ordering watches based on regular production models, such clients were often supplied with examples of the highest grade and quality. Combining exceptional complications, refined finishing and distinguished provenance, the present watch is a fine reflection of this tradition.

百達翡麗

粉紅金三問追針計時懷錶，備琺瑯錶盤，由 Tiffany & Co. 發行，約1896年製

Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense.

Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band.

Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.

"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."