The reference 2526 was the first self-winding watch made by Patek Philippe. This model came out in 1953 and was produced until the early 1960s until it was succeeded by the reference 3428. This particular example features the highly sought after first series dial. The original movement was not functioning properly, but instead of fixing it Patek Philippe decided to change the entire movement. As a result of this movement swap, Patek Philippe will not issue an extract from the archives for this watch. Movement swaps were a common practice by Patek Philippe in the 1950s, but unfortunately they did not keep records of what replacement movements were put in what watches.

The original owner, Frank W. Rettenmeyer ( June 29, 1891 – April 29, 1965) was the former president and Chairman of the Napier Company. The firm was established in 1875 as Whitney and Rice of Attleboro, MA, manufacturing men’s pocketwatch chains. The company changed names a few times and eventually became Napier Co. This company was at one time the largest privately owned jewelry manufacturer in the USA. Frank Rettenmeyer worked at this company for 58 years and was named president In 1960 and retired in 1964 and passed away one year later in 1965. The present watch was given to Frank to celebrate his 50th anniversary at the company in 1957.

The estimate is reflective of this fact about the movement however this is still a desirable watch overall, especially with the first series dial and interesting provenance.