Patek Philippe's minute repeating pocket watches are a luxury all collectors should consider. There is nothing more elegant and classic as a striking watch, both from the practical, to hear the time, and the mechanical, to see the function. The clear gongs resonate with a tone and clarity, which must be heard in order to believe. The repeat function was first developed in the late 17th century when the Englishman Daniel Quare invented a striking mechanism for the hours and quarters. In the 18th century Thomas Mudge from the UK developed the minute repeating mechanism and by the late 18th century the famed horologist Abraham Louis Breguet replaced the typical “bell” repeater with the now familiar gong mechanism allowing for a streamlined case.

Research indicates Patek Philippe made approximately 3600 repeating mechanisms, and during the 19th century most examples were hunter case watches, with the open face watch model becoming en vogue in 20th century. It is during this period, the maker began to produce miniature repeating pocket watches, often for Tiffany & Co. The present watch is a handsome example and in nice overall condition. The resonance of the repeat is clear and loud. The inside cuvette is inscribed “Elwyn Smith Syracuse New York”. A search finds a 1940 US Census record showing an Elwyn Smith of Syracuse New York residing in Ward 6. Today’s world of technology has often left the traditional methods of the past behind. It is at times a well respite from technology to spend a few minutes with a repeating watch.