Manufacturer: Patek Philippe Year: 1948 Reference No: 2406 Movement No: 962'991 Case No: 651'964 Material: 18K pink gold Calibre: Manual, cal. 12-120, 18 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: Gold plated pin buckle Dimensions: 35mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial and movement signed Accessories: Accompanied by Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1948 and its subsequent sale on March 23, 1949.
Catalogue Essay
Reference 2406 is distinguished by its elegant elongated lugs. Launched in 1945, the watch boasted a 35mm case, which was considerably large for the period. The present watch is an exceedingly rare example, as it is fitted with a pink dial, which has been preserved in excellent condition. The markers have slightly oxidized, giving this timepiece a lot of character. The case has furthermore developed a layer of rosy patina over time, with a crisp hallmark punched on the side of the lug.
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.