Manufacturer: Patek Philippe Year: 1966 Reference No: 2499 Movement No: 869'353 Case No: 2'637'696 Material: 18k yellow gold Calibre: Manual, cal. 13''', 23 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Crocodile Clasp/Buckle: 18k yellow gold Patek Philippe Dimensions: 38mm. Diameter Signed: Case, dial and movement signed Accessories: Accompanied by Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1966 and its subsequent sale on June 21, 1966
Catalogue Essay
The iconic reference 2499 was the successor of reference 1518, the worlds first perpetual calendar wristwatch made in series. From 1951 until 1985, a total of 349 pieces were made, making this a highly exclusive reference in the company’s history.
Reference 2499 was produced in four different series over its 35 year run, the main differences being the shape of the pushers, the hour markers, and the inclusion of a tachometer scale. Additionally, the fourth series is the only series of this reference seen fitted with a sapphire crystal.
The first series was the only model to feature the square chronograph pushers, whereas the second, third and fourth series all included round chronograph pushers. The hour markers seen on the first series are Arabic numerals, the only series to feature only Arabic numerals. The second series can have both Arabic numerals as well as baton hour markers, whereas the third and fourth series are only seen with baton hour markers. Lastly, the first and second series feature a tachometer scale on the dial, which was removed from the dial on the third and fourth series.
The present watch is a highly intellectual example of reference 2499, and a beloved rarity amongst collectors. This watch is considered to be a “two and a half” series - one of only two known – recognizable through its unusual configuration of round chronograph pushers, applied Arabic hour markers, and no tachometer scale. Most amazingly, the only two watches that are known are not only close in terms of their serial number, but even more so as they were both sold in late June of 1966. Not only proving that indeed during the summer of 1966 there was a batch of possibly only two watches destined for special customers, but confirming a piece of scholarship that was known and continued to evolved.
Furthermore, it is the only example known featuring the prestigious “Tiffany & Co.” retailer signature on the dial - a subtlety adored by collectors.
The case is in overall good condition with the hallmark stamping still present in between the well-defined stepped lugs. The dial has survived in remarkably good condition, and stands out from the rest of the group. This watch’s looks combined with exclusivity, and collectability is a rare opportunity for discerning collectors.
Since its founding in 1839, this famous Geneva-based firm has been surprising its clientele with superbly crafted timepieces fitted with watchmaking's most prestigious complications. Traditional and conservative designs are found across Patek Philippe's watches made throughout their history — the utmost in understated elegance.
Well-known for the Graves Supercomplication — a highly complicated pocket watch that was the world’s most complicated watch for 50 years — this family-owned brand has earned a reputation of excellence around the world. Patek's complicated vintage watches hold the highest number of world records for results achieved at auction compared with any other brand. For collectors, key models include the reference 1518, the world's first serially produced perpetual calendar chronograph, and its successor, the reference 2499. Other famous models include perpetual calendars such as the ref. 1526, ref. 3448 and 3450, chronographs such as the reference 130, 530 and 1463, as well as reference 1436 and 1563 split seconds chronographs. Patek is also well-known for their classically styled, time-only "Calatrava" dress watches, and the "Nautilus," an iconic luxury sports watch first introduced in 1976 as the reference 3700 that is still in production today.