Following World War II, Patek Philippe opened their Electronics Division in 1948 to research and develop new technologies, and since that time they have produced a variety of clocks from engraved gilt brass examples like the present example to well-known and cherished polychrome cloisonné enamel solar dome clocks. The first series clocks issued in the 1950s and 1960s featured both a mechanical 17 lignes pocket watch movement, along with a solar panel and battery array, which was connected to the pocket watch movement and supplied the energy to drive it. Overtime as technology improved, the pocket watch movement was removed and the clock driven by solar powered quartz movements, and by 2007 the use of the solar panels had been reduced with clocks manufactured with a quartz movement and the use of the solar panel diminished or not even used.

The present gilt brass clock is typical of the early design period and manufacture. It takes an innovative brand to move beyond the traditions of horology and use solar power as a means to generate power. Early clock came in a range of shapes with vertical and horizontal rectangular-shape the most common. The present “demi lune” or half-moon shape is rarely seen and it provides an aesthetic appeal from the past. The brushed gilt chapter ring with black Roman numerals surrounds a gilt speckled center. The clock front with engraved scrolls on two wide vertical pillars and two smaller horizontal plaques has an architectural dimension. On the top the quartered solar panel is surrounded by a sunburst display.

This clock is in excellent overall condition and while the Empire style design is 19th century, the movement is rooted in the mid-20th century technology. Fresh to the market, it is only the 4th known example to appear at auction. The clock is a fine example of the early years of Patek Philippe foray in to solar technology and a rare opportunity for collectors.