Patek Philippe

“Tasti Tondi”, Reference 1463 | A yellow gold chronograph wristwatch, Made in 1952

Auction Closed

April 24, 04:23 PM GMT

Estimate

800,000 - 1,400,000 HKD

Lot Details

Description

PROPERTY FROM AN IMPORTANT ASIAN COLLECTOR

Patek Philippe

“Tasti Tondi”, Reference 1463

A yellow gold chronograph wristwatch, Made in 1952

Dial: silvered

Calibre: cal. 13’’’ mechanical, 23 jewels

Movement number: 868’517

Case: 18k yellow gold, screw down case back

Case number: 679’092

Closure: brown unsigned leather strap and 18k yellow gold Henri Stern buckle

Size: 35 mm diameter

Signed: case, dial and movement

Accessories: Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming the production of the present watch in 1952 and its subsequent sale on March 22nd, 1954

Sales of complicated wristwatches were devastated by the Great Depression of the early 1930s, and brands like Patek Philippe were in desperate need of a product with more “mass market” appeal to stay afloat. This is exactly what the Stern brothers set out to do after taking over the company in 1932. A slew of renowned, less-complicated references were introduced as a result, with the reference 96 released that same year, soon followed by a series of chronographs including the 130, 530 and 1463.

Nicknamed “Tasti Tondi” for the use of round and decorated pushers, a first for Patek Philippe, reference 1463 was also the first waterproof chronograph when it was released in 1940. This was achieved using a screw-down case back, in conjunction with the larger round pushers. Throughout its production run which lasted until 1969, 720 watches of the reference were produced across 3 metals, with approximately 400 of them produced in the present yellow gold. The pushers serve to make the watch instantly recognizable and certainly lend to the sporty aesthetic that Patek Philippe wished to imbue. Owing to its waterproof capabilities, it can indeed be said that reference 1463 was the brand’s first ever sports chronograph.

The mythical status of reference 1463 is reflected in its desirability on the market, with individual factors then elevating the truly spectacular examples. The present watch is offered in excellent condition, with a handsome case featuring crisp hallmarks and dial in attractive overall condition. The present lot represents an unmissable opportunity for all serious collectors to own an excellent example of a truly important reference, from one of the most famed brands in the world.

百達翡麗 “Tasti Tondi” 型號1463

黃金計時腕錶，1952年製

附帶後補資料庫精粹

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."