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Lot Essay
Please note that Christie’s has applied for an ‘Extract from the Archives’ from Patek Philippe Archives but the Extract has not yet been issued and may not be available by the date of the auction.
Manufacture of reference 425 began in 1934 and continued until 1960, when it was succeeded by the slightly larger reference 2461. Among Patek Philippe’s most popular wristwatches of the period, it is distinguished by its refined Art Deco architectural design, which would go on to influence many of the maison’s rectangular models. The watch is fitted with the celebrated rectangular calibre 9-90, regarded as one of the finest non-circular movements produced by the manufacture at the time.
Perfectly encapsulating the elegance of early 20th-century watchmaking, the delicately curved rectangular case features a hinged construction, ensuring both comfort and sophistication on the wrist. Its timeless Art Deco aesthetic is enhanced by diamond-set hour markers, lending a subtle yet unmistakable refinement. Italian collectors affectionately nicknamed the model 'Tegolino', after a popular sponge cake whose shape echoes the watch’s elongated form. As such, it stands as a remarkable example of Patek Philippe’s early wristwatch production, combining artistry, rarity, and historical significance.
Remarkably, the present timepiece is further distinguished by its double-signed dial bearing the name of Asprey, adding an additional layer of desirability and exclusivity.
Asprey
Founded in 1847 and located at 167 New Bond Street in London, Asprey has long been synonymous with supplying exceptional timepieces to an elite international clientele, particularly Middle Eastern royalty. The firm became renowned for commissioning special watches featuring unique emblems or gem-set designs from leading manufacturers such as Patek Philippe, Rolex, and Audemars Piguet.
In the realm of watchmaking, Asprey occupied a unique position, maintaining direct relationships with distinguished clients and acting as a trusted intermediary for bespoke commissions, further enhancing the prestige of watches bearing its signature.
Manufacture of reference 425 began in 1934 and continued until 1960, when it was succeeded by the slightly larger reference 2461. Among Patek Philippe’s most popular wristwatches of the period, it is distinguished by its refined Art Deco architectural design, which would go on to influence many of the maison’s rectangular models. The watch is fitted with the celebrated rectangular calibre 9-90, regarded as one of the finest non-circular movements produced by the manufacture at the time.
Perfectly encapsulating the elegance of early 20th-century watchmaking, the delicately curved rectangular case features a hinged construction, ensuring both comfort and sophistication on the wrist. Its timeless Art Deco aesthetic is enhanced by diamond-set hour markers, lending a subtle yet unmistakable refinement. Italian collectors affectionately nicknamed the model 'Tegolino', after a popular sponge cake whose shape echoes the watch’s elongated form. As such, it stands as a remarkable example of Patek Philippe’s early wristwatch production, combining artistry, rarity, and historical significance.
Remarkably, the present timepiece is further distinguished by its double-signed dial bearing the name of Asprey, adding an additional layer of desirability and exclusivity.
Asprey
Founded in 1847 and located at 167 New Bond Street in London, Asprey has long been synonymous with supplying exceptional timepieces to an elite international clientele, particularly Middle Eastern royalty. The firm became renowned for commissioning special watches featuring unique emblems or gem-set designs from leading manufacturers such as Patek Philippe, Rolex, and Audemars Piguet.
In the realm of watchmaking, Asprey occupied a unique position, maintaining direct relationships with distinguished clients and acting as a trusted intermediary for bespoke commissions, further enhancing the prestige of watches bearing its signature.