Reference 2499, widely acknowledged as one of the world's greatest watch models ever created, and has undoubtedly greatly influenced the designs of many of the most renowned watchmakers. Introduced to the market in 1950 it replaced the legendary reference 1518 (see lots 188 and 291 in this auction), the world's first perpetual calendar wristwatch with chronograph made in series.
Over a period of 35 years, reference 2499 was made in four series in a total production of only 349 pieces, the majority cased in yellow gold. The rarity of this model becomes evident when considering that on an average only 9 watches left Patek Philippe's workshops each year.
Reference 2499 is generally divided into the following four series:
- First series: square chronograph buttons, applied Arabic numerals and tachymetre scale.
- Second series, such as the present watch: round chronograph buttons, either applied baton or applied Arabic numerals and tachymetre scale.
- Third series: round chronograph buttons, applied baton indexes and outer seconds divisions (the present lot is from the third series).
- Fourth series: round chronograph buttons, applied baton indexes, outer seconds divisions and sapphire crystal.