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Lot Essay
Entirely fresh to the market and consigned by an important private collector, the present reference 2438-1 is an extremely attractive example of this super-rare model, of which only around twenty-nine examples in yellow gold are publicly known. Very seldom offered at auction, the legendary reference 2438-1 must be considered, along with the references 1518, 2497 and 2499, amongst the most iconic and sought-after of Patek Philippe’s “golden-age” complicated wristwatches.
Over the years, the gold case of the present watch has developed that much appreciated bluish patina or oxidation so beloved by the cognoscenti today, underlining that it has not been used in a long time. Both hallmarks on the lugs are crisp and clearly visible, indicating that the watch has never been subject to careless polishing.
The unrestored dial depicts a lovely shine, adding to the overall appeal of this fine timepiece. During its over 60 years of existence, it has possibly been once ever so gently cleaned, the hard enamel signature and scales are as clear and raised as the collector would expect.
A modern classic, fresh to the market, with private provenance and in excellent original overall condition modern classic, great to wear as in 1963 when it was sold.
Reference 2438-1
Reference 2438-1 was produced between 1952 and 1963 and only available in either yellow or pink gold. It was in fact made as a water-resistant variation of the more familiar reference 2497 which is fitted with the same movement and dial. Supplied by Wenger, one of the best case makers in Geneva, the case of the 2438-1 is fitted with a screw down back as opposed to the 2497s snap on back and is 0.7 mm smaller with a still impressive diameter of 37 mm. - oversized at the time of its first inception, but totally in line with today’s standards.
The references 2438-1 and 2497 were the first and only sweep centre seconds perpetual calendar watches produced by Patek Philippe right up until the launch of references 5050 and 5059 nearly forty years later in 1993.
The aesthetic impact of the reference 2438-1 largely stems from its iconic lugs, defined by the carved groove to the upper outer edges, a feature it has in common with the reference 2499. This detail transfigures the overall look of the watch imbuing it with a subtle yet stately importance leaving no doubt that one is in the presence of one of watch collecting’s all-time classics.
The present watch is from the model’s second series with a second series Mark I dial. The first series reference 2438 is recognized by its applied Arabic numerals and feuille hands. The second series, such as the present, can be found with two dial variations: Mark I - with applied five-facet “bullet” baton numerals and dauphine hands; Mark II – with shorter four-facet baton numerals.
Examples of reference 2497 are illustrated and described in Patek Philippe Museum - Patek Philippe Watches Vol. II, pp. 295
Over the years, the gold case of the present watch has developed that much appreciated bluish patina or oxidation so beloved by the cognoscenti today, underlining that it has not been used in a long time. Both hallmarks on the lugs are crisp and clearly visible, indicating that the watch has never been subject to careless polishing.
The unrestored dial depicts a lovely shine, adding to the overall appeal of this fine timepiece. During its over 60 years of existence, it has possibly been once ever so gently cleaned, the hard enamel signature and scales are as clear and raised as the collector would expect.
A modern classic, fresh to the market, with private provenance and in excellent original overall condition modern classic, great to wear as in 1963 when it was sold.
Reference 2438-1
Reference 2438-1 was produced between 1952 and 1963 and only available in either yellow or pink gold. It was in fact made as a water-resistant variation of the more familiar reference 2497 which is fitted with the same movement and dial. Supplied by Wenger, one of the best case makers in Geneva, the case of the 2438-1 is fitted with a screw down back as opposed to the 2497s snap on back and is 0.7 mm smaller with a still impressive diameter of 37 mm. - oversized at the time of its first inception, but totally in line with today’s standards.
The references 2438-1 and 2497 were the first and only sweep centre seconds perpetual calendar watches produced by Patek Philippe right up until the launch of references 5050 and 5059 nearly forty years later in 1993.
The aesthetic impact of the reference 2438-1 largely stems from its iconic lugs, defined by the carved groove to the upper outer edges, a feature it has in common with the reference 2499. This detail transfigures the overall look of the watch imbuing it with a subtle yet stately importance leaving no doubt that one is in the presence of one of watch collecting’s all-time classics.
The present watch is from the model’s second series with a second series Mark I dial. The first series reference 2438 is recognized by its applied Arabic numerals and feuille hands. The second series, such as the present, can be found with two dial variations: Mark I - with applied five-facet “bullet” baton numerals and dauphine hands; Mark II – with shorter four-facet baton numerals.
Examples of reference 2497 are illustrated and described in Patek Philippe Museum - Patek Philippe Watches Vol. II, pp. 295