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Lot Essay
Accompanied by Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1955 and its subsequent sale on 19 November 1960.
This watch is probably the finest example of reference 2438/1 to appear at auction in decades. Its distinct case proportions and details are wonderfully preserved due to the lack of polishing and wear. The dial reflects a great shine with no signs of any restoration. A particular feature is the magnifying glass integrated into the crystal, allowing the wearer to comfortably read the date indications. The above elements combined with the very small number of watches produced of the model render this watch a fine trophy for any connoisseur collector.
In 1951, Patek Philippe launched reference 2497 and its water-resistant counterpart, reference 2438/1. A combined total of only 179 examples of these two models were produced, cased either in yellow or pink gold. Reference 2438/1 is generally divided into two different series:
- the first with applied Arabic numerals and dauphine hands
- the second series, such as the present watch, with applied baton numerals and dauphine hands
Reference 2438/1 is illustrated in Patek Philippe Wristwatches by Martin Huber & Alan Banbery, second edition, p. 284.
This watch is probably the finest example of reference 2438/1 to appear at auction in decades. Its distinct case proportions and details are wonderfully preserved due to the lack of polishing and wear. The dial reflects a great shine with no signs of any restoration. A particular feature is the magnifying glass integrated into the crystal, allowing the wearer to comfortably read the date indications. The above elements combined with the very small number of watches produced of the model render this watch a fine trophy for any connoisseur collector.
In 1951, Patek Philippe launched reference 2497 and its water-resistant counterpart, reference 2438/1. A combined total of only 179 examples of these two models were produced, cased either in yellow or pink gold. Reference 2438/1 is generally divided into two different series:
- the first with applied Arabic numerals and dauphine hands
- the second series, such as the present watch, with applied baton numerals and dauphine hands
Reference 2438/1 is illustrated in Patek Philippe Wristwatches by Martin Huber & Alan Banbery, second edition, p. 284.