Patek Philippe - The Geneva Watch Auction: FIVE Geneva Friday, May 12, 2017 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Patek Philippe
    Year: 1953
    Reference No: 1463
    Movement No: 868'683
    Case No: 686'375
    Model Name: "Tasti Tondi"
    Material: 18K yellow gold
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 13''' 23 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Leather
    Clasp/Buckle: 18K yellow gold Patek Philippe buckle
    Dimensions: 35mm. Diameter
    Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed
    Accessories: Accompanied by Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in yellow gold with pulsations scale, dial type 646 and gold numerals in 1953 and its subsequent sale on 14 December 1955.

  • Catalogue Essay

    Reference 1463 is one of the most popular vintage chronograph wristwatches on the market today. Today, the model is even more favored than it was at the time of production, due to its robust case proportions and oversized chronograph pushers. Along with the elusive reference 1563, it was the only vintage chronograph model manufactured by Patek Philippe that was fitted with an water-resistant case and round chronograph pushers. The model was a "sportier" alternative to the less robust reference 130.

    Amongst the rarest and most desirable of reference 1463 chronographs are those bearing a "pulsations" scale on the dial. Yet, to discover one, coupled with a two-tone dial, is positively unheard of. Previously unknown to the market, the present watch is one of a handful known to offer both features - absolutely astounding, considering that the reference was in production for approximately 29 years. The brushed silver texture of the outside pulsometer contrasts wonderfully against the rest of the dial, which is enhanced with champagne patina, giving it so much depth and charisma.

    Further enhancing the watch is the Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives, which is a collector's ultimate dream come true, confirming the present watch is fitted with "dial type 646" with gold numerals and pulsometer scale.

    The dial furthermore features incredibly strong enamel graphics, with the "accent" incredibly strong and apparent above the Patek Philippe Genève signature. There are no losses to the enamel, attesting to the completely untouched condition of the dial.

    One could furthermore easily wax lyrical about the case, featuring two sharp hallmarks on the back of the lug and in between the pushers. The bezel retains its strong definition, and even the crown remains original.

    Manufactured in 1953, this example is a superlative second series "Tasti Tondi" in every sense, delighting with its sheer rarity, magnificent condition and utmost beauty.

  • Artist Biography

    Patek Philippe

    Swiss • 1839

    Since its founding in 1839, this famous Geneva-based firm has been surprising its clientele with superbly crafted timepieces fitted with watchmaking's most prestigious complications. Traditional and conservative designs are found across Patek Philippe's watches made throughout their history — the utmost in understated elegance.

    Well-known for the Graves Supercomplication — a highly complicated pocket watch that was the world’s most complicated watch for 50 years — this family-owned brand has earned a reputation of excellence around the world. Patek's complicated vintage watches hold the highest number of world records for results achieved at auction compared with any other brand. For collectors, key models include the reference 1518, the world's first serially produced perpetual calendar chronograph, and its successor, the reference 2499. Other famous models include perpetual calendars such as the ref. 1526, ref. 3448 and 3450, chronographs such as the reference 130, 530 and 1463, as well as reference 1436 and 1563 split seconds chronographs. Patek is also well-known for their classically styled, time-only "Calatrava" dress watches, and the "Nautilus," an iconic luxury sports watch first introduced in 1976 as the reference 3700 that is still in production today.

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Ref. 1463
An extremely fine and exceedingly rare yellow gold chronograph wristwatch with two-tone dial and pulsations scale

1953
35mm. Diameter
Case, dial, movement and buckle signed

Estimate
CHF150,000 - 250,000 
€139,000-232,000
$149,000-248,000

Sold for CHF250,000

Contact Specialist
Alexandre Ghotbi
+41 22 317 81 89

The Geneva Watch Auction: FIVE

Geneva Auctions 13 – 14 May 2017