Patek Philippe is renowned for its iconic line of perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatches. From the very first serialized model, the reference 1518 released in 1941, the manufacturer has continued to delight collectors with these remarkable and important complicated timepieces. In production for 34 years, the reference 2499 succeeded the reference 1518 beginning in 1951 and was made in only 349 pieces (approximately 10 units per year). Early examples featured cases made by Vichet, soon to be replaced by Wenger, like the present watch, whose production is most notable for its modern 37.5mm diameter case and other subtle differences. The beauty of the reference 2499 combined with its rarity have made it a "grail model” since the very beginning of wristwatch collecting, and now having developed a truly mythical aura, it is rightfully considered an “endgame” watch for many experienced collectors.
The reference 2499 can be divided into four series:
- First series watches feature square chronograph pushers, applied Arabic numerals, and display a tachymeter scale on the dial.
- Second series watches feature round chronograph pushers, either applied baton or applied Arabic numerals, and a tachymeter scale on the dial.
- Third series feature round chronograph pushers, applied baton numerals, and outer seconds divisions without tachymeter scale.
- Fourth series, like the present watch, feature round chronograph pushers, applied baton numerals, outer seconds divisions, and a sapphire crystal.
The reference 2499/100, known as the fourth series and the last generation, was in production from 1980 to 1985, before the launch of the replacement reference 3970, in 1986. The present watch was last seen in public in 2012 and has since remained treasured by an important international collector. It is one of the earliest made in the series and remains in superbly preserved, original condition. The Wenger case, most probably unpolished, features well-defined lines and strong definition with the recognizable compact stepped lugs and domed caseback. The hallmark at nine o’clock remains crisp and the gold has taken on a warm hue indicative of hardly being worn, while the dial remains well-preserved. Remarkably the case was meant for the American market as seen by the crisp 18K hallmark found on the center of the case back.
Originally from the collection of famed American voice actor and radio personality, Mel Blanc, this lovely 2499/100 is a testament to the enduring legacy of Patek Philippe’s historic line of perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatches. The 2499 is a horological icon and the incredible condition of this example make it a highly sought after trophy watch for the most discerning connoisseur.