Patek Philippe - WINNING ICONS – Legendary Watches of the 20th Century New York Thursday, October 26, 2017 | Phillips
  • Manufacturer: Patek Philippe
    Year: 1968
    Reference No: 2499
    Movement No: 869’359
    Case No: 2’637’700, top left lug interior side stamped 700
    Material: 18k yellow gold
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 13’’’, 23 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Patek Philippe crocodile
    Clasp/Buckle: Patek Philippe gold pin buckle
    Dimensions: 37.5mm diameter
    Accessories: Accompanied by Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1968 and its subsequent sale on 27 June 1968.

  • Catalogue Essay

    Amongst high-end complicated wristwatches, the Patek Philippe reference 2499 can be considered one of, if not the most iconic and desirable trophy watches to crown any collection. Produced between 1951 and 1985, in a limited number of approximately 349 examples, this model is the second generation of Patek Philippe’s lineage of high quality precision perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatches. The reference 2499 replaced its predecessor, the reference 1518 introduced in 1941. The restrained, classic style of the 1940s gave way to a larger and more robust watch, and while the earliest examples resemble the reference 1518 with square chronograph pushers, the larger reference 2499 was designed with an exuberant appeal reflecting the hopeful climate of the post-war 1950s. The reference 2499 is especially desirable due its large and well-proportioned 37.5-millimeter case. This was a massive size for the era in which they were produced – when most mens’ watches measured between 32 and 35 mm. Research over the years has determined that over its 35-year history, the reference 2499 underwent subtle changes. Patek Philippe initially used famed case maker, Vichet, to manufacture the 2499’s case, however early on switched their production to the Wenger atelier. The Vichet case had pronounced, elongated lugs, and a flat case back, while the Wenger case featured a beautifully domed case back with more compact lugs, as found on the present timepiece.

    Patek Philippe evolved the dial designs as well, and can be categorized into the following four series:
    • First series: distinguished by square chronograph pushers, applied Arabic numerals and tachymeter scale.
    • Second series: first to use round chronograph pushers, either applied Arabic or baton numerals, and tachymeter scale.
    • Third series: to which the present example belongs, round chronograph buttons, applied baton numerals and outer seconds divisions, the tachymeter scale has been removed.
    • Fourth series: round chronograph pushers, applied baton numerals and out seconds division, with sapphire crystal, reference 2499/100.

    Every element of the 2499 exudes quality. Inside, every component of its 13-ligne movement is superbly handfinished, as certified by the Geneva Seal quality stamp found on its bridge. This lovely perpetual calendar chronograph from 1968 is in beautifully preserved, original condition. The case displays strong definition to the lugs, and well-preserved hallmarks, and the expansive, highly legible dial exhibits fully defined, raised hard enamel print throughout. Printed using champlevé enamel, an indelible technique in which the dial’s surface is first engraved, filled with powdered enamel, and finally baked in a high temperature oven, the crispness and definition of the print on the present lot leads one to conclude that the dial was never restored or cleaned in any way. The reference 2499 is a milestone wristwatch, and we’re delighted to offer this premium, third-series example. Its timeless aesthetics combined with exclusivity and superb collectability presents a rare opportunity for discerning collectors.

  • 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. 2499
A very fine and rare yellow gold perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch with moon phases.

1968
Case, dial and movement signed
37.5mm diameter

Estimate
$350,000 - 700,000 
CHF341,000-682,000
€298,000-596,000
HK$2,730,000-5,460,000

Sold for $459,000

Contact Specialist
Paul Boutros
Head of Watches, Americas
+1 212 940 1293
pboutros@phillips.com

WINNING ICONS – Legendary Watches of the 20th Century

New York Auction 26 October 2017