MODEL 1
MOVEMENT NO. 131'347
CASE NO. 239'023
CIRCA: 1910s
CASE MATERIAL: Pink gold
CASE DIAMETER: 56 mm.
DIAL: White enamel
MOVEMENT: Manual
FUNCTIONS: Time only

MODEL 2
MOVEMENT NO. 142'342
CASE NO. 249'936
CIRCA: 1910s
CASE MATERIAL: Pink gold
CASE DIAMETER: 51 mm.
DIAL: White enamel
MOVEMENT: Manual
FUNCTIONS: Time only

MODEL 3
MOVEMENT NO. 148'952
CASE NO. 253'365
CIRCA: 1910s
CASE MATERIAL: Pink gold
CASE DIAMETER: 48.5 mm.
DIAL: White enamel
MOVEMENT: Manual
FUNCTIONS: Time only

WITH: Later added unbranded triple-fitted presentation box

Conditions of Sale
FAQs
This lot is offered by Christie's International SA

Brought to you by

Lot Essay

The celebrated ‘Chronometro Gondolo’ was produced in a remarkable variety of sizes and configurations, most commonly in openface pink gold cases, with fewer examples made in yellow gold or silver. Case diameters ranged from approximately 32 to 57 mm., while movements were produced in sizes from 10''' to 22'''. Particularly noteworthy, the ‘Gondolos’ were Patek Philippe’s only timepieces of the 20th century to feature a gold wheel train, a technical characteristic that immediately distinguishes them from the manufacture’s regular production.

Chronometro Gondolo
On 12 November 1872, Patek Philippe supplied its first watch to the Rio de Janeiro retailer Gondolo & Labouriau, beginning an extraordinary commercial relationship that would continue until 1927. During this period, approximately one third of Patek Philippe’s entire production was sold through the Brazilian retailer. The watches supplied to Gondolo & Labouriau were made according to specific technical requirements and were offered to members of the celebrated collecting society that became known as the ‘Gondolo Gang’.

Five principal characteristics distinguished these watches from Patek Philippe’s regular production. The ébauche was based on Adrien Philippe’s patented design, incorporating the distinctive S-shaped minute-train bridge that would become one of the manufacture’s recognisable movement features. The movement was further distinguished by a 9-carat gold wheel train and a straight-line ‘moustache’ lever escapement with cut bimetallic compensation balance and Breguet balance spring. Each movement was required to have a minimum of 18 jewels and was additionally fitted with François Wilmot’s patented micrometric cam regulator.

Combining these highly specific mechanical characteristics with exceptional standards of construction, the Chronometro Gondolo occupies a fascinating position in Patek Philippe’s history. Created specifically for one of the manufacture’s most important international retailers and its remarkable community of collectors, these watches remain enduring witnesses to the close relationship between Patek Philippe and the Brazilian market during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.

More from

Watches Online: The Geneva Edit

View All

Condition report

A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.

I confirm that I have read this Important Notice regarding Condition Reports and agree to its terms.

View Condition Report

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.

MODEL 1
Movement: The movement is ticking at the time of cataloguing; however, a service is recommended. Christie’s does not guarantee the future working of the movement.
Dial: Imperfections and spots throughout. Serviced protective glass.
Case: Scratches throughout. Oxidation throughout. Oxidation on the crown guard. Tool marks to the side of case from opening.

MODEL 2
Movement: The movement is ticking at the time of cataloguing; however, a service is recommended. Christie’s does not guarantee the future working of the movement.
Dial: Imperfections and spots throughout, notably above 1 and 2 o'clock, as well as around the subdial at 6 o'clock. Serviced protective glass.
Case: Scratches throughout. Oxidation throughout. Oxidation on the crown guard. Tool marks to the side of case from opening.

MODEL 3
Movement: The movement is ticking at the time of cataloguing; however, a service is recommended. Christie’s does not guarantee the future working of the movement.
Dial: Imperfections and spots throughout, notably in the subdial at 6 o'clock.
Case: Scratches throughout. Oxidation throughout. Oxidation on the crown guard. Tool marks to the side of case from opening.

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.

Print Report