Beginning in the late 1930s, there was a growing appreciation in society for sports and outdoor pursuits. Watch manufacturers sought to fulfill a demand for more durable timepieces, which could withstand the elements. The reference 1463 was designed for such active clientele as the sportier alternative to the less robust reference 130 chronograph. It was produced mainly in yellow gold, with fewer examples in stainless steel and pink gold. How telling, that even in the pursuit of creating a sports watch, Patek Philippe still decided to focus production on precious metals.

In production from 1940 through 1965, the reference 1463 is extremely desirable amongst collectors for its mid-20th century design with oversized case proportions, water resistance, gently curved lugs, and its whimsically carved, round chronograph pushers. The model was offered with a variety of dial types with the present model featuring the rare pulsation scale.

Originally sold in 1949, this reference 1463 previously appeared at auction in 1997 in this exact configuration. The dial is believed to be from the 1960s due to the omission of the outer railway minute track. One can assume that the dial most probably was changed by Patek Philippe in the 1960s during a service when this extremely rare pulsations dial was fitted at the request of the then-owner.

Preserved in outstanding condition with a crisp, and most probably unpolished case, it is sure to impress collectors with its beauty and exemplary state of preservation. Please note that Patek Philippe has declined to issue an updated Extract from the Archives and the present lot will be sold as-is.