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PATEK PHILIPPE CALATRAVA REFERENCE 2526 ROSE GOLD LUMINOUS DIAL

Introduced in 1953, the Patek Philippe reference 2526 marked the brand’s first venture into automatic watches, available in white, yellow, pink gold, and platinum. The movement driving this timepiece is the renowned 12-600AT, hailed as one of the finest automatic calibers in the history of watchmaking. The reference 2526 was offered with a variety of dial options, including black, metal, diamond, and the distinctive ‘Do Unto Other,’ but the most prevalent variation showcased a white enamel dial, as exemplified by this particular model. Crafted by Stern Frères, these dials are widely regarded as some of the most coveted time-only watch dials ever manufactured. Notably delicate, the enamel dials are prone to cracking from shock, making the survival of the 500 to 600 examples produced between 1953 and 1960 quite rare. Reference 2526 holds a significant place in the realm of vintage Patek Philippe watches. Regarded as the ultimate treasure among Patek enthusiasts, it is an essential and irreplaceable component of any comprehensive Patek vintage collection.

This Patek Philippe reference 2526 stands out as a noteworthy example of this iconic Patek Philippe model. Already rare on its own, this particular specimen possesses a distinctive and uncommon feature found in only about 15 examples: the presence of luminous material on both the hands and indexes. This characteristic significantly elevates the rarity and collectability of the watch. In terms of overall condition, it remains in very good shape. The case appears untouched, retaining its original form with some expected signs of wear and use, which is normal for a watch of this age. The dial still holds the luminous material on the hands and indexes, displaying only one light hairlines on the enamel surface between 6 and 7. The caliber operates flawlessly. Although the watch was originally sold with a leather strap, as confirmed by the extract, it now comes also with an 18kt rose gold bracelet featuring the Patek symbol on the clasp. This is likely an addition made by the owner over the years.

Accompanied by an Extract from the archives, this 2526 come with the confirmation of date of sale in 1957.

Serial Number 695,XXX, Diameter 35mm.

PATEK PHILIPPE POCKET WATCH PLATINUM TIFFANY

Patek Philippe and Tiffany & Co. have had a historical partnership resulting in co-branded or co-signed watches. The collaboration dates back to the late 1800s when Tiffany & Co. became one of the first retailers to carry Patek Philippe timepieces in the United States. Watches with both the Patek Philippe and Tiffany & Co. signatures are highly sought after by collectors due to the combination of Patek Philippe’s exceptional craftsmanship and Tiffany & Co.’s reputation for luxury and quality. Patek Philippe watches co-signed by Tiffany & Co. typically feature both brand names on the dial. The co-signature adds an extra layer of exclusivity and prestige to the timepiece. These co-branded watches often fetch a premium in the vintage watch market.

The present Patek Philippe Pocket watch exemplifies an exceptional century-long collaboration with Tiffany. Its rarity extends beyond the distinguished Tiffany signature on the dial, encompassing several other aspects that significantly enhance its collectibility and desirability. Crafted in platinum in 1926, a notably special feat, this pocket watch would have commanded an extraordinarily high price at the time. Adding to its allure, the case, bezel, and bow are adorned with yellow gold oak leaves on black enamel. The dial proudly displays “Breguet” numerals, undoubtedly among the most iconic minute markers of the 20th century. A striking feature lies on the caseback, where an engraved inscription, likely from the original owner at the time of purchase, reads: “The plans of a day depend on the morning. The plans of the year depend on spring. The plans of a life depend on diligence.” These eloquent words provoke our imagination as we contemplate the identity and life experiences of the original owner of this extraordinary timepiece.
Accompanied by an Extract from the archives, this pocket watch comes with confirmation of all its features and the date of sale in 1927.

Serial Number 604,XXX Diameter 45mm.

FAVRE LEUBA BATHY 160

Favre-Leuba is a Swiss watchmaker with a rich history dating back to 1737, making it one of the oldest watch companies globally. It’s known for its innovative designs, technical advancements, and durability. Favre-Leuba has been a pioneer in various horological advancements. For instance, it produced some of the earliest wrist-worn chronographs in the early 20th century. Their watches are often recognized for their robustness and reliability, traits that have earned them a reputation for being adventure-oriented timepieces. They’ve crafted watches specifically for explorers, adventurers, and professionals who require durable and precise timekeeping instruments in challenging conditions. The present watch fully epitomizes Favre-Leuba’s expertise in crafting timepieces for individuals engaged in extreme activities such as deep-sea scuba diving.

This Favre-Leuba “Bathy 160” stands as a remarkable scuba diving watch from the 1970s. Sporting a striking orange acrylic bezel designed for scuba timing, a blue dial with depth measurements in feet, and a robust stainless steel case and bracelet, it was undoubtedly the go-to timepiece for deep-sea exploration during that era. Maintaining an overall very good condition, it remains in its original state with intact shapes and finishing. While the dial displays a faint orange blemish, likely stemming from the material used for the hands and dial, this minor flaw does little to diminish the vintage allure of this timepiece.

The watch comes with original box and papers.

AUDEMARS PIGUET ROYAL OAK 4100BC DIAMOND DIAL

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak reference 4100 holds a special place in the history of collectible vintage watches. It was one of the earliest models introduced in the Royal Oak collection, which revolutionized the watch industry. The Royal Oak reference 4100 series was introduced later and in larger quantities than the original full-size reference 5402, offering a similar impact but at a more affordable price, being the standard entry model. The 4100 was powered by the Caliber 2123 automatic movement with centre second hand, based on Jaeger-LeCoultre’s cal. 888, also used in the original mid-sized Patek Philippe Nautilus. The mid-sized 35mm version, introduced in 1976 with the 4100 series, was produced in different materials and designs, primarily in stainless steel, yellow gold, and steel/gold combinations. However, the white gold variation, like the present example, stands out as the rarest and least commonly found. The 4100BC is exceptionally scarce in the market due to its extreme rarity.

This Audemars Piguet Royal Oak reference 4100BC stands as an extraordinary specimen of this highly uncommon model featuring a white gold case and bracelet. Few of these watches have appeared on the market, rendering this timepiece a remarkable opportunity for collectors seeking an exceptional addition to their collection. The standout feature is the stunning bluish dial adorned with 10 diamonds, an exceedingly rare feature for any Royal Oak watch. Despite some signs of aging on the case and bracelet, the watch retains its original finishing, remaining in exceptionally good overall condition and untouched.

The watch is accompanied by an extract from the archives confirming the sale of this watch in 1981.

Serial Number B699XX, Diameter 35mm.

PATEK PHILIPPE PERPETUAL CALENDAR CHRONOGRAPH REFERENCE 3970R

The Patek Philippe Reference 5970 is an iconic and highly coveted timepiece among collectors. It’s part of the brand’s Grand Complications collection, known for its exquisite craftsmanship and intricate complications. The Reference 3970 is a perpetual calendar chronograph watch, combining two significant complications in watchmaking. It features a 24-hour sub-dial, a moon phase indicator, day and month displays, and a leap year indicator alongside the chronograph function. The perpetual calendar is designed to automatically adjust for months with different lengths and leap years. Patek Philippe launched reference 3970 in 1986 and was manufactured in yellow gold, pink gold, white gold, and platinum across four distinct series, its production extending over 19 years. It’s estimated that during its manufacturing run, only 4,000 units of this particular model were created.

This particular piece belongs to the fourth series, representing one of the final examples produced by the factory. This can be identified by the baton hands, faceted indexes, as well as the inclusion of a solid gold caseback and deployant clasp. Another exceptional feature adding to its rarity and collectibility is the use of pink gold, one of the scarcer materials in which the 3970 was manufactured.
The overall condition of this timepiece is exceptionally well-preserved, showcasing deep hallmarks, sharply defined lugs, an immaculate dial, and caliber. There are virtually no visible signs of wear or use, indicating minimal exposure to wrist wear. It stands as a truly beautiful and meticulously maintained specimen.The watch comes with original box, papers, booklets.

Serial Number 4,010,XXX, circa early 2000’s, diameter 36mm.