110Σ︎
Patek Philippe
Ref. 2438/1
百達翡麗，非常罕有精細，黃金萬年曆腕錶，備中心秒針、月相顯示、旋入式底蓋。
完整圖錄內容
The world’s first perpetual calendar wristwatch with centre seconds, along side its sibling reference 2497 with a snap on caseback, its rarity is mainly attributed to its unconventional position in Patek's production line. The brand was renowned for its high-end, intricate timepieces, not for its tool watches. Consequently, the concept of a heavily priced gold perpetual calendar watch with waterproof capabilities seemed incongruous to their clientele.
An exemplar horological design, characterised by its harmonious symmetry, striking curves, and generous case dimensions, reference 2438-1 also further marked the debut of the world's first serially produced waterproof perpetual calendar wristwatch.
Believed to have been produced in only 35 examples in yellow gold with 26 having already appeared to the market, the reference 2438-1 can be categorised into two distinct series: the first with applied Arabic numerals and feuille hands, and the second, exemplified by the present watch, featuring applied baton numerals and dauphine hands.
The present watch is an exceedingly well-preserved example, with a remarkably strong dial and case. Two hallmarks can be found on the case and the fluting on the lugs are crisp and visible. Given the sensitivity of the case, just minor polishing dulls the facets, yet the present example retains its edges. The dial exhibits crisp graphics which are clear and visible.
It is interesting to note that the addition of center seconds necessitated the development of a totally new movement, as retrofitting the existing cal. 13’’-130 present on the reference 2499 was not possible. Patek Philippe thus utilized 179 consecutively numbered calibers 27SC (888’000 to 888’178), to create the caliber 27SCQ (Second au Centre Quantième).
Patek Philippe
Swiss | 1839Since 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.