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PROPERTY OF AN AMERICAN FAMILY

105

Patek Philippe

Ref. 1463

“Tasti Tondi”

An exceptional, fresh-to-market, and very rare stainless steel chronograph wristwatch with Breguet numerals and Certificate of Origin

Estimate
$200,000 - 400,000
Lot Details
Manufacturer
Patek Philippe
Year
Circa 1950s
Reference No
1463
Movement No
863’665
Case No
640’544
Model Name
“Tasti Tondi”
Material
Stainless Steel
Calibre
Manual, cal. 13’’’, 23 jewels
Bracelet/Strap
Leather
Dimensions
35mm Diameter
Signed
Case, dial, and movement signed.
Accessories
Accompanied by Patek Philippe Certificate of Origin stamped “Patek Philippe Watch Co., 587 Fifth Avenue, New York” and envelope.
Catalogue Essay
Phillips is honored to offer this exceptional and fresh to the market Patek Philippe stainless steel chronograph wristwatch from the family of the original owner. Patek Philippe is known for some of the most iconic timepieces of all time, from the famed 96, the first referenced wristwatch released in 1932, to its historic mid-20th century references 1518 and 2499 perpetual calendar chronograph watches with moon phases, and even the legendary reference 1463, the classic chronograph wristwatch with waterproof case and round pushers. Launched in 1940 and remaining in production until 1965, the 1463 was mainly offered in yellow gold, with fewer examples in stainless steel, and even fewer in pink gold.

The concept of a “sports watch” is well-known today, but 80 years ago, it was a novel idea with elegant and gentlemanly timepieces worn by businessmen and captains of industry displaying their social status. There was a growing appreciation in late 1930s polite society for sports and outdoor adventures, and watch manufacturers sought to fulfill a demand for more durable timepieces that could withstand rigorous use. The reference 1463 was designed for such active clientele as the sportier alternative to the less robust reference 130 chronograph. The legendary model is one of the most sought after and collectible vintage chronograph wristwatches due to its water-resistant case, modern proportions, and prominent chronograph pushers. The model has grown in desirability as a vintage horological icon that was ahead of its time.

The present stainless steel reference 1463 with Breguet numerals from circa 1950s is exceptional. Consigned by the family of the original owner, it is in remarkable, all original condition with a strong case and beautifully preserved dial. The dial, with its exquisite, applied steel Breguet numerals, has aged gently and gracefully, remaining well-preserved with the raised enamel short signature intact and accent to the “e” still present. Research indicates there are no more than 20 known examples of the stainless steel reference 1463 with Breguet numerals. This example is made all the more sought after, with the original Patek Philippe Certificate of Origin stamped “Patek Philippe Watch Co., 587 Fifth Avenue, New York”, accompanying the watch.

Patek Philippe is appreciated by collectors for their exceptional mechanical innovations and modern designs. The reference 1463 is one of the most sought after models given its iconic place in the pantheon of horology. This wonderful, fresh to the market example is sure to delight the most discerning collectors of vintage timepieces.

Please note that Patek Philippe has declined to issue an Extract from the Archives for this watch.

Patek Philippe

Swiss | 1839
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.
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