Manufacturer: Patek Philippe Year: 1952 Reference No: 530 Movement No: 868'438 Case No: 513'033 Material: 18K yellow gold Calibre: Manual, cal. 13''', 23 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: 18K yellow gold Patek Philippe buckle Dimensions: 36.5mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement, and buckle signed. Accessories: Accompanied by Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch with tachymeter scale in 1952 and its subsequent sale on April 5th, 1954.
Catalogue Essay
Patek Philippe timepieces from the mid 20th-century hold a special attraction for their masculine appeal, understated elegance, and exceptional quality. Their desirability has stood the test of time, becoming icons amongst their peers. With famed references such as the perpetual calendar chrono- graph references 1518 and 2499, or the classic time only reference 96 Calatrava, Patek Philippe has for generations produced extremely well-finished, precision timepieces that are appreciated and sought after by collectors and serious enthusiasts.
The reference 530 was launched in 1937 and today re- mains one of the rarest and largest chronograph models produced by Patek Philippe. An upgrade from the classic reference 130 chronograph, which was in production from 1936 until 1964, the 530 features an impressive 36.5mm diameter case, compared to the 33.5mm on the reference 130 chronograph, giving it a decidedly modern aesthetic and impressive appearance on the wrist. Patek Philippe produced the chronograph in two versions based on the width of the lugs; the “Tonneau” with a measurement of 19mm and the “Calatrava” measuring 21.5mm. The reference 530 can be considered the ultimate in terms of rarity, desirability, and aesthetic beauty
The present reference 530 with tachymeter scale is appearing for the first time at public auction and can be considered one of the finest to be offered. The case re- mains crisp and well-preserved, displaying the wonderful equilibrium the reference is known for with its powerful lugs, concave bezel, and sensuous curves. Its brilliant silver dial is remarkably clean, aging gracefully since it left the factory with all of its raised, hard enamel printing remaining crisp and fully intact.
The watch impresses with its originality and contemporary elegance. Today’s collectors always seek to find vintage watches that meet a high standard, and this example is sure to impress the most discerning of collectors.
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.
