Manufacturer: Patek Philippe Year: 1953 Reference No: 2461 Movement No: 975'677 Case No: 674'397 Material: Platinum and diamond Calibre: Manual, cal. 9'90, 18 jewels, further stamped "HOX" Bracelet/Strap: Patek Philippe alligator strap Clasp/Buckle: 18K white gold Patek Philippe buckle Dimensions: 42mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial, and movement signed. Accessories: With Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch with diamond hour markers in 1953 and its subsequent sale on November 20th, 1956.
Catalogue Essay
The mid-20th century was the golden age of classic modern horology. Many iconic timepieces were developed during the 1940s, 50s and 60s, and Patek Philippe’s production included time only wristwatches like the Calatrava reference 96 or Grand Calatrava reference 570 [see lot 101], to complicated timepieces such as the 1518 and its successor the 2499. Today, these gems are highly sought after by connoisseurs for their design, innovation and technical excellence. The reference 2461 is an exemplary model from this period. The time only watch was produced in yellow, pink and white gold, and, rarely, in platinum. Produced between 1950 and 1964, it was an updated version of the reference 425, which measured 35mm in length, compared to the more substantial reference 2461 measuring 42mm in length. The case, manufactured by Markowski for Patek Philippe, who is also known for his later work on the Gilbert Albert designed cases, has smooth clean lines, giving the watch a strong architectural feel. There is a lovely curve to the watch when seen in profile and fits comfortably on the wrist.
The present watch is in lovely original condition, retaining its strong lines. The dial has an eye-catching look with the diamond-set dial, known as Heures Brillantes (HB). It is a watch that is both classic and elegant and makes a fine statement for an evening out, whether to the opera or at an outdoor restaurant in the Caribbean.
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.