While ref. 96 is round with simple lugs, the ref. 484 is distinguished by its interesting semi-hooded lugs. As with other 1930s Patek Philippe models, the ref. 484 is extremely, extremely rare. To the best of our knowledge, only 4 examples has appeared publicly in the market.

The caseback of the present example bears an engraved motif reading “H P MI III,” while the inner caseback is inscribed with “H.P. McIntosh III” and “BOOTH ROAD MENTOR OHIO.” Based on our research, the “H.P. McIntosh III” we are referring here is possibly the original owner of the watch while Booth Road, Mentor could be his family address at the time. He might be the eldest son of Henry P. McIntosh Jr., the president of Guardian Savings Trust Co. in 1901 (the bank is now known as Guardian Savings Bank). The timepiece was very likely a commissioned piece, with the personalized engraving on the caseback added post-production.

The case of the present example was crafted by Wenger, one of Patek Philippe’s most trusted case makers of the era. Identified by the Geneva key number 1 hallmark inside the caseback.

Despite its age of 95 years, the present example remains in excellent overall condition. It was last serviced in late 1991 and is further supported by two Patek Philippe Extracts from the Archives, underscoring its authenticity and provenance.