In the early 1930s, celebrated Geneva watchmaker Louis Cottier (1894-1966) invented a functional complication that would allow the wearer to instantaneously know the time in 42 different cities. Designed to be simple to operate, the local or mean time is set through the crown (the 24 hour ring will revolve in the opposite direction to the hands). Subsequently, the outer ring is adjusted by depressing the button in the case until one's current location is indicated at the 12 o'clock position. Once calibrated, the relative time of each world location is set. The two-tone, 24-hour ring indicates world locations that are in night time by the grey section and daytime by the silvered section.
By the late 1930’s travel was becoming more common and some of the most prestigious watchmakers such as Patek Philippe, Vacheron Constantin and Rolex presented this complication in pocket or wristwatches. In 1937 Patek Philippe released the reference 605HU (Heures Universelles) that remained in production for more than 10 years. Made in 1946, the present watch is one of approximately 46 examples ever produced, and the 21st to come to market. Another reference 605 also retailed by Gübelin is known and has movement and case numbers only few numbers apart from the present one. Presented today in very appealing condition, accompanied with its original box as well as an Extract from the Archives of both Patek Philippe and Gübelin, this watch represents a rare opportunity to own a piece that has travel through time and continents with elegance.