Patek Philippe

Reference 3424 | A yellow gold asymmetrical wristwatch, Designed by Gilbert Albert, Circa 1962

Auction Closed

April 24, 04:23 PM GMT

Estimate

500,000 - 1,000,000 HKD

Lot Details

Description

PROPERTY OF AN IMPORTANT COLLECTOR

Patek Philippe

Reference 3424

A yellow gold asymmetrical wristwatch, Designed by Gilbert Albert, Circa 1962

Dial: silvered

Calibre: cal. 8''85 mechanical, 18 jewels

Movement number: 857'580

Case: 18k yellow gold, snap on case back

Case number: 2'622'908

Closure: black Patek Philippe alligator strap and 18k yellow gold buckle

Size: 39 mm length x 27 mm width

Signed: case, dial and movement

Accessories: none

In 1955, Patek Philippe unexpectedly partnered with the designer Gilbert Albert. At just 25 years old, Albert was already a skilled artist and jeweler from Geneva and became part of the Patek Philippe design team. Albert was known for his innovative and bold designs that broke away from the conventional during the 1950s and 1960s. Drawing inspiration from modern artists like Brancusi and Mondrian, Albert's daring and unconventional case designs are viewed as avant-garde even until today, just as they were 60 years ago.

While some of Albert’s modern designs remained prototypes due to concerns over their commercial viability, Henri Stern, then chairman of Patek Philippe, was captivated by this particular case design and decided to proceed with production. As a result, the Reference 3424 was manufactured, although in very limited quantities. The case maker selected for this unique creation was Markowski, based in Geneva, as indicated by the number 8 in a key, stamped on the inner case back.

Arguably the most recognizable, iconic, and celebrated of his designs for Patek is the present asymmetrically cased Reference 3424. This timepiece is a hallmark of 20th-century design, combining both unconventional and elegant elements, and remains just as striking today as it was at its debut at the Basel Fair in 1959.

百達翡麗型號3424

黃金不對稱腕錶，由Gilbert Albert設計，約1962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."