Patek Philippe released the reference 2597 in 1958, which was based on a Louis Cottier-designed prototype from 1953 with Heures Sautantes, or jumping hours. Cottier, an independent watchmaker now considered a legend of the field, was fascinated with multi-time zones and travel -time complications.
The model is based on reference 570, of which is basically a carbon copy with the addition of the two pushers on the left band. Operating them makes the hour hand instantaneously jump forward or backward by one hour, allowing for easy adjustment of the time in case of travelling through time zones. So intelligent and enduring was this travel time design that versions of the same system can still be found in modern and current production Patek Philippe watches such as ref. 5524 and ref. 5134 - and in fact its evolution was the focus of the latest Advanced Research effort: the travel time Aquanaut ref. 5650 (see lot 149). A subtle addition which betrays the attention to details of Patek Philippe can be found in the pusher protection: two elements prevent inadvertent operation of the pushers, which can be effectively operated by inserting a nail into the appropriate slit.
Production of the model can be divided into two series: the First Series, like the present watch, features a single hour hand. The Second Series, launched in 1962 and named 2597-1, added an additional blued steel hour hand, thus showing both “home” and “away” times. It is important to point out that when this Second Series was launched, Patek Philippe gave retailers who still had in stock 2-hand pieces the opportunity to upgrade them with a “3-hand service kit”. Consequently, First Series examples retaining the original 2-hand configuration are extremely scarce.
Dials as well present an evolution: earlier models, such as the present piece, feature engraved/enameled baton markers. A very costly production methodology, it was later abandoned in favour on the applied baton markers seen on Second Series dials.
Finally, the movement as well presents an evolution - making this one of the “most upgraded” vintage models of the company, quite ironically considered its limited production. Early pieces, such as the present one, are fitted with cal. 12-400, while later examples are fitted with cal. 27-400.
Retaining a two-hand, engraved/enamel dial configuration and the 12-400 caliber, this watch represents the purest, earliest iteration of the model.
This would already be enough to put the savvy collector on “high alert” but it is just the beginning of what the watch has to offer. It is in fact an incredibly well-preserved pink gold example. If a 90-piece production makes a model rare and attractive, the elusive pink version propels it to new heights of collectability. In total, it is estimated that only 15 pink gold examples were made in total and so far, the market has seen 7 of them. Of these, only 2 - including the present piece - feature the 2-hand, cal. 12-400 configuration.
Finally, the condition of the piece is as stellar as its configuration. The case presents extremely sharp edges, strong satin finish, and deep hallmarks: it is in truly outstanding condition. The dial as well will not disappoint the most demanding collector. Just a hint of off-white patina indicated the passage of time, while the dial surface is unspoiled and the engraved enameled numerals are flawless.
Merging condition, rarity, technical proficiency and utmost collectability, the present piece is without a doubt one of the most fascinating and important vintage pieces made by Patek Philippe to appear at auction in recent years.
