Patek Philippe’s legendary reference 1463 is one of the most sought-after and collectible vintage chronograph wristwatches, renowned for its strong case proportions and prominent chronograph pushers. Nicknamed the “Tasti Tondi”, it was first released in 1940 and the brand’s first water-resistant chronograph, featuring a screw-down caseback and the now-iconic round chronograph pushers.
While the concept of a “sports watch” is widely recognized today, it was a novel idea 80 years ago. Elegant timepieces were typically worn by businessmen and elites of industry, showcasing their social status. However, beginning in the late 1930s, there was a growing societal appreciation for sports and outdoor adventures, prompting watch manufacturers to create more durable timepieces capable of withstanding the activities. The reference 1463 was designed for this active clientele, serving as a sportier alternative to the less robust reference 130 chronograph.
As one of Patek Philippe's first ventures into water-resistant cases, the brand commissioned the esteemed Geneva case maker Taubert, identifiable by the Geneva Key number 11 stamped on the inner caseback. Taubert had acquired Frères Borgel in 1924, and an additional “FB” hallmark was also stamped on their products.
The case of the present example is in exceptional condition, displaying crisp hallmarks on the central case band and behind the lug. It features the correct stepped bezel and downturned curved lugs, characteristic of later generations, while the dial is exceptionally well preserved, with all raised enamel elements remaining perfectly legible.
According to scholars, approximately 720 pieces of the reference 1463 were produced between 1940 and 1965 across three metals: yellow gold, stainless steel, and a very limited number in pink gold. In fact, only about 61 examples in pink gold are known in the market, underscoring the rarity of this stunning piece.
Originally featured in the Racing Pulse auction in New York, this watch was consigned by the descendants of the original owner, Dr. Theodore Isaac Rubin, a renowned American psychiatrist, in 2020. The watch has been well-kept since then, and we are extremely honored to present this timepiece at auction once again.
