A remarkably rare model, ref. 530 can arguably considered the most timeless among the vintage Patek Philippe chronograph models. Sporting the clean Bauhaus-inspired Calatrava case design of reference 130, it features an overzise-for-the-time 36.5mm case thanks to which it enormously resonates with today’s taste.
Its important size, while making it an incredibly attractive timepiece according to current standards is also there reason for its slim output, as it was deemed too prominent on the wrist in the 1940s and 1950s. Consequently, it is estimated that only a total of about 140 pieces were made, in yellow gold pink gold and steel.
If 140 examples sounds like a small number, pink gold examples are much scarcer than that. it is estimated that no more than thirty 530 cases were made in pink gold, and so fare the market has seen about 15 examples.
Combining a contemporary size, quintessentially vintage design - both of case and dial -, and such a restricted output, it is obvious that any pink gold example of this model would be fiercely contended by Patek Philippe collectors all over the world.
The present watch, however, stands in a category of its own. In fact, practically all pink gold example known feature a silvered dial. Only two examples divert from this norm: an example with champagne dial, and the present piece with salmon dial.
The combination of pink dial and pink case is beyond remarkable in terms of aesthetics, granting the piece an enormously warm and exotic vibe, and is obviously the reason of the moniker “Monochrome Pink”, with which this piece is known in the collecting circle since its first and only appearance at auction, in 2004, when it sold for 674’500 CHF. It is interesting to point out that this configuration was at the time appreciated mostly in the South American/Spanish market, and indeed this watch confirms that trend: one can find on the original buckle with probably an Eastern Europe import mark.
Beyond its aesthetic attractiveness, the “Pink-on-Pink” (or “PoP”) configuration is considered a classic of Patek Philippe’s vintage production, as rarely employed as it is appreciated. Most notably, the “PoP” version of reference 1518 has been recognised as an ultimate grail by the community, with about a dozen pieces known out of a 281 pieces overall production. This helps to put in perspective the importance of the only known PoP iteration of ref. 530, with a 140 pieces overall production.
Beyond its unicity, importance and aesthetics, the present watch can proudly say to be able to cross out also the “Condition” box on a connoisseur’s checklist. The case is beyond impressive, sporting full lugs, crisp hallmarks and strong sating finish to the band, truly a joy to behold. The dial as well can be described as breathtaking, with a very intense salmon tonality to the dial and strong graphics.
Combining rarity, looks, condition and importance, the present watch is beyond any doubt one of the most remarkable pure chronographs ever produced by the company - a true Grail for the ages, if ever there was one.
