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Lot Essay
Produced between 1948 and 1956, reference 2431 is distinguished by its impressive case with dramatic flame-shaped lugs, manufactured by the celebrated casemaker Vichet. A perfect expression of Patek Philippe's avant-garde approach to design during the post-war period, the reference departs from the more conventional round and rectangular forms of the era through its highly sculptural case architecture. The stepped, sweeping lugs extend boldly from the case, giving the watch an unmistakable presence and making reference 2431 one of the manufacture's most distinctive mid-century designs.
The present example belongs to the first series of reference 2431, characterised by the use of the hand-wound calibre 12-120. Later examples would be fitted with the calibre 12-400, making these early watches particularly interesting within the evolution of the reference. Rarity further enhances the appeal of the present timepiece. According to current research, fewer than 25 examples of reference 2431 in yellow gold have appeared publicly on the market, making it an exceptionally uncommon model.
The present example belongs to the first series of reference 2431, characterised by the use of the hand-wound calibre 12-120. Later examples would be fitted with the calibre 12-400, making these early watches particularly interesting within the evolution of the reference. Rarity further enhances the appeal of the present timepiece. According to current research, fewer than 25 examples of reference 2431 in yellow gold have appeared publicly on the market, making it an exceptionally uncommon model.