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Lot Essay
With Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1982 and its subsequent sale on December 1st of the following year. Further accompanied by a Patek Philippe suede pouche, 18k gold setting pin and outer packaging.
In 1951 Patek Philippe introduced the reference 2499 to the market, succeeding the famed reference 1518, the first perpetual calendar chronograph ever produced in series by the firm. While only 349 examples of this particular timepiece were manufactured over four different series, the watch remained in production until 1985. The 2499 retains some of the same characteristics as its predecessor, namely its combination of complications like perpetual calendar, chronograph and moon phases. Yet at the same time it is distinctly unique from the reference 1518 in that it has both fluted lugs and a wider diameter.
The reference 2499 evolved four times over the years. Its transformation was acheived through subtle changes made to both the case and dial. The first series featured a tachometer dial with applied Arabic numerals and square chronograph buttons. When the second series came to the forefront it still retained a tachometer scale with applied baton or Arabic numerals but with round chronograph buttons. The third series, made between 1960 and 1978, again had the round buttons but the dial lacked a tachometer, showcasing instead only applied baton numerals. The fourth manifestation was nearly identical to the third except for the addition of a sapphire crystal.
Of the fourth series, the present example, to the best of our knowledge, has never before been offered in public. Furthermore its unspoiled and lovely condition impresses the thirsty collector and enthusiast alike with its originality.
The model is illustrated in Patek Philippe Wristwatches by Martin Huber & Alan Banbery, second edition, pp. 302 & 304.
In 1951 Patek Philippe introduced the reference 2499 to the market, succeeding the famed reference 1518, the first perpetual calendar chronograph ever produced in series by the firm. While only 349 examples of this particular timepiece were manufactured over four different series, the watch remained in production until 1985. The 2499 retains some of the same characteristics as its predecessor, namely its combination of complications like perpetual calendar, chronograph and moon phases. Yet at the same time it is distinctly unique from the reference 1518 in that it has both fluted lugs and a wider diameter.
The reference 2499 evolved four times over the years. Its transformation was acheived through subtle changes made to both the case and dial. The first series featured a tachometer dial with applied Arabic numerals and square chronograph buttons. When the second series came to the forefront it still retained a tachometer scale with applied baton or Arabic numerals but with round chronograph buttons. The third series, made between 1960 and 1978, again had the round buttons but the dial lacked a tachometer, showcasing instead only applied baton numerals. The fourth manifestation was nearly identical to the third except for the addition of a sapphire crystal.
Of the fourth series, the present example, to the best of our knowledge, has never before been offered in public. Furthermore its unspoiled and lovely condition impresses the thirsty collector and enthusiast alike with its originality.
The model is illustrated in Patek Philippe Wristwatches by Martin Huber & Alan Banbery, second edition, pp. 302 & 304.