The first perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch produced in series by any watch company, Patek Philippe’s reference 1518 was launched in 1941 and according to literature, only 281 examples were made until 1954, the majority cased in yellow gold, few in pink gold.The model was later replaced by reference 2499, also a perpetual calendar chronograph, but with a wider diameter and fluted lugs.

The 1518 was a design first, setting the template for all of its ‘descendants’ with its basic layout — apertures at 12, two subsidiary dials at 9 and 3, and a moonphase at 6. Its square push buttons, attractive mid-century aesthetic, and beautiful raised enamel dial tachymeter make this watch the timepiece of choice for experienced collectors today.

As the first perpetual chronograph to be made in series by any maker, the reference 1518 quickly attracted the attention of royalty and the privileged, including King Farouk of Egypt, the King of Jordan, and of course Henry Graves, Jr., arguably the greatest watch collector of the 20th century. The reference 1518 is now a treasured and collectible timepiece, seen by many Patek Philippe connoisseurs as the crown jewel of their collection.

The present timepiece has the coveted Patek Philippe full signature (Patek Philippe & Co.) seen on watches made before 1947. The watch’s authenticity is further confirmed by an Extract from the Archives.