Patek Philippe - The 2021 New York Watch Auction New York Saturday, December 11, 2021 | Phillips

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  • Manufacturer: Patek Philippe
    Year: 1955
    Reference No: 2508
    Movement No: 704’999
    Case No: 691’451
    Model Name: Calatrava
    Material: 18K yellow gold
    Calibre: Manual, cal. 27SC, 18 jewels
    Bracelet/Strap: Crocodile
    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 date of manufacture of the present watch in 1955, and its subsequent sale on April 26th, 1956.

  • Catalogue Essay

    Launched in 1951, the reference 2508 was Patek Philippe’s first Calatrava model to feature a waterproof case. In production from 1952 until 1960, the generous 35mm Taubert-sourced case featured the same shape and proportions as that of another iconic Patek Philippe - the waterproof chronograph reference 1463. Both models have a sporty appeal that lends a casual air and have now become beacons for mid-20th century timepiece design with their masculine shape and well-balanced proportions. The model was produced in yellow and rose gold, as well as in stainless steel. Collectors passionately vie for important time-only models like the reference 565, 570, the first automatic, the reference 2526 and like the present lot, the reference 2508.

    The present example has rarely been worn in its 66 year history and is consequently preserved in breathtaking condition. The dial, with extremely rare luminous hour markers and hands, has aged gracefully over the years, with the luminous material aging to a pleasing sandy brown hue. The raised, hard enamel signature is perfectly intact with no losses to the lettering and accent. The case remains sharp and crisp, with strong proportions and a crisp hallmark found on the underside of the lugs.
    The reference 2508 is a charismatic timepiece and an icon of classic horology. The present example is in exceptional overall condition and is a wonderful example from the golden age of horology certain to delight the connoisseur.

  • Artist Biography

    Patek Philippe

    Swiss • 1839

    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.

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Σ20

Ref. 2508
An extremely well-preserved, rare, and attractive yellow gold wristwatch with luminous dial and center seconds

1955
35mm Diameter
Case, dial, movement and buckle signed

Estimate
$20,000 - 40,000 
CHF18,700-37,300
€17,800-35,600
HK$156,000-312,000

Sold for $52,920

Contact Specialist

Paul Boutros

Head of Watches, Americas

+1 (212) 940-1293

WatchesNY@Phillips.com

 

The 2021 New York Watch Auction

New York Auction 11 - 12 December 2021