The Patek Philippe reference 1463 is, alongside its ultra rare sister model, reference 1563, the only vintage chronograph models by Patek Philippe fitted with a water-resistant-type case and round chronograph pushers. Produced for three decades, beginning in 1940 through to the 1970s, the majority of the acclaimed “Tasti Tondi”, Italian for “round pushers”, were cased in yellow gold, with a small number cased in steel and rose gold.
We are delighted to offer the present stainless steel example, made in 1946, that is amongst the finest examples to appear on the market. In superb, unrestored condition, its case retains its original factory satin finished and polished surfaces with beautiful and rich proportions, sharp edges, and full lugs. The eye catching, graceful two-tone dial features raised steel indexes and a tachymeter scale, with its protective lacquer having developed a very attractive light grey colored patina. The raised, hard enamel signature and all dial graphics, are perfectly intact and original, with no signs of ever having been cleaned or restored. At 6 o’clock, the prestigious retailer’s name “E. Gübelin” is printed. Founded in Lucerne in 1854 and was then as now, one of the most exclusive retailers of fine horology. Over the past twenty years, only a handful of steel reference 1463 watches have been offered at auction, and the present lot is the steel example with this dial configuration and the Gübelin signature known to date. Preserved in wonderful, original condition, this remarkable example offers unparalleled beauty and exclusivity, and is deserving of a prominent position in any collection of distinction.