Patek Philippe’s original “Chronometro Gondolo” watches, like the present example, were made between 1902 and 1930 for the Brazilian retailer, Gondolo & Labouriau. Each was originally sold to members of their exclusive club, the “Gondolo Gang”. Consisting of Brazilian high-society, each member was required to buy one watch. Clients would pay 10 francs per week until the watch was fully paid for, however Gondolo Labouriau held weekly draws so that the first week’s winner received his watch for free, while the second week’s winner had paid a minimal sum and so on until the 79th week’s winner, at this point remaining members were required to pay the full retail price. This clever system not only helped sell watches but allowed their private club members to gamble - which was illegal at the time - but not enforceable for private organizations.

Designed with a large hinged case and gentle curvature, this extraordinary watch is a lovely reflection of a bygone era. The movement was manufactured according to the highest grade specifications provided by the retailer, including a cam wheel regulator, allowing for precise but practical adjustments to the watch, a "moustache"-shaped lever, wolf's tooth winding gears, and gold wheels for the wheel train. Produced in several sizes, the 50mm watch (including lugs) was the largest, and today retains an impressive and contemporary feel.

The present watch with its large Art Deco numerals is part of a series of watches made in 1913 and sold to Gondolo between 1922 and 1924. Only seven watches within this series are known, two of which are now showcased in the Patek Philippe museum.

Fresh to the market, the present watch is in impressive condition considering its age and will delight the gentleman collector with an astute eye for rarity and elegance.