CIRCA: 1930s
CASE MATERIAL: Stainless steel
CASE DIAMETER: 28 mm.
BRACELET MATERIAL: Later added non-fitted white gold Patek Philippe and Gay Frères bracelet
BRACELET SIZE: Approx. 170 mm. overall length
DIAL: Silvered
MOVEMENT: Manual
FUNCTIONS: Time only
BOX: No
PAPERS: No

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Lot Essay

The present timepiece is a particularly rare stainless steel Patek Philippe wristwatch dating from the manufacture’s so-called ‘pre-reference’ period. Prior to the Stern family’s acquisition of Patek Philippe in 1932, the manufacture had yet to introduce the systematic use of reference numbers, making surviving wristwatches from this early period particularly fascinating examples of its production.

Of particular interest, the inside caseback is stamped ‘15’ immediately beneath the case number, most likely indicating that the watch was the 15th example produced within its batch. The stainless steel case was made by Taubert, as identified by the characteristic ‘FB’ key stamped within the caseback. Taubert would become one of the acknowledged specialists in water-resistant watch cases and later supplied Patek Philippe with cases for some of its most celebrated models, including the reference 1463 chronograph. The present timepiece is further fitted with a metal dust cover protecting the movement.

Adding considerably to its appeal is the white gold Patek Philippe woven mesh bracelet manufactured by the celebrated bracelet maker Gay Frères. Renowned for the exceptional quality of its creations, Gay Frères would go on to produce bracelets for some of the most iconic wristwatches of the 20th century, including the Patek Philippe Nautilus reference 3700 and Audemars Piguet Royal Oak reference 5402.

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Condition report

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The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.

Movement: The movement is not ticking at the time of cataloguing; a service is strongly recommended at Patek Philippe. Christie’s does not guarantee the future working of the movement.
Dial: Previously restored and reprinted. Oxidation and some peeling throughout.
Case: Scratches and dents throughout. Signs of previous polishing. Service crown. Some oxidation / corrosion between the case and caseback. Caseback with signs of wear and scratches. Glass has scratches.
Bracelet: Scratches throughout. Later added non-fitted white gold Patek Philippe and Gay Frères bracelet, dated 3.61. The clasp is broken.
Remark: An ‘Extract from the Archives’ has been requested from Patek Philippe but has not yet been issued. Issuance is subject entirely to Patek Philippe’s determination, and there can be no assurance that an Extract will be issued at all or, if issued, that it will be available by the date of the auction.

Should you require additional details or pictures, please contact a specialist.
The condition of lots sold in our auctions can vary widely due to factors such as age, previous damage, restoration, repair and wear and tear. Their nature means that they will rarely be in perfect condition. Lots are sold "as is," in the condition they are in at the time of the sale, without any representation or warranty or assumption of liability of any kind as to condition by Christie's or by the seller.
Any reference to condition in a catalogue entry or in a condition report will not amount to a full description of condition, and images may not show a lot clearly. Colours and shades may look different in print or on screen to how they look on physical inspection. Condition reports may be available to help you evaluate the condition of a lot. Condition reports are provided free of charge as a convenience to our buyers and are for guidance only. They offer our opinion but they may not refer to all faults, inherent defects, restoration, alteration or adaptation because our staff are not professional restorers or conservators. For that reason they are not an alternative to examining a lot in person or taking your own professional advice. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have requested, received and considered any condition report.

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