Manufacturer: Patek Philippe Year: 1953 Reference No: 1463 Movement No: 868'683 Case No: 686'375 Model Name: "Tasti Tondi" Material: 18K yellow gold Calibre: Manual, cal. 13''' 23 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: 18K yellow gold Patek Philippe buckle Dimensions: 35mm. Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed Accessories: Accompanied by Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in yellow gold with pulsations scale, dial type 646 and gold numerals in 1953 and its subsequent sale on 14 December 1955.
Catalogue Essay
Reference 1463 is one of the most popular vintage chronograph wristwatches on the market today. Today, the model is even more favored than it was at the time of production, due to its robust case proportions and oversized chronograph pushers. Along with the elusive reference 1563, it was the only vintage chronograph model manufactured by Patek Philippe that was fitted with an water-resistant case and round chronograph pushers. The model was a "sportier" alternative to the less robust reference 130.
Amongst the rarest and most desirable of reference 1463 chronographs are those bearing a "pulsations" scale on the dial. Yet, to discover one, coupled with a two-tone dial, is positively unheard of. Previously unknown to the market, the present watch is one of a handful known to offer both features - absolutely astounding, considering that the reference was in production for approximately 29 years. The brushed silver texture of the outside pulsometer contrasts wonderfully against the rest of the dial, which is enhanced with champagne patina, giving it so much depth and charisma.
Further enhancing the watch is the Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives, which is a collector's ultimate dream come true, confirming the present watch is fitted with "dial type 646" with gold numerals and pulsometer scale.
The dial furthermore features incredibly strong enamel graphics, with the "accent" incredibly strong and apparent above the Patek Philippe Genève signature. There are no losses to the enamel, attesting to the completely untouched condition of the dial.
One could furthermore easily wax lyrical about the case, featuring two sharp hallmarks on the back of the lug and in between the pushers. The bezel retains its strong definition, and even the crown remains original.
Manufactured in 1953, this example is a superlative second series "Tasti Tondi" in every sense, delighting with its sheer rarity, magnificent condition and utmost beauty.
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.