193 Patek Philippe Fine and Rare “Top-Hat” Rectangular-Shape Wristwatch in Pink Gold, Reference 1450, With Hooded Lugs and Patek Pink Gold Buckle

Estimate: € 4,000 –⁠ 8,000

Sold € 6,890

Model: Top Hat
Material: Pink Gold
Reference N°: 2480
Year: 1954
Case N°: 673907
Caliber: 9″90
Movement type: Manual
Movement N°: 976039
Bracelet: Leather Strap
Dimensions: 24mmx38mm
Signed: Dial, case, movement
Accessories: Extract from the archives

Patek Philippe has always given life to watches of excellent quality throughout its ultra-centenary history. Since 1839, year of its foundation, several periods have developed in which Patek has had particular blooms for certain watches: initially were the pocket models while in recent years have been supercomplicated specimens. Between the ’30s to the ’50s can instead be considered the “golden age” for rectangular-cased watches with totally unconventional shapes and amazing designs. Usually of small dimensions, if compared with modern gigantic standards, these delicate timepieces, absolute pinnacle of both movement and case making in PP illustrious history, could perfectly fit the wrists of costumers. One of the most celebrated and appreciated models ever produced is the Top Hat, whose most important representative is the reference 1450. Another exponent of this family is the present reference 2480, similar in appearance to the sister reference 1450 with some differences in the style of the case. The one of the 2480 in fact has less prominent and more beveled bands at the corners to give more delicacy and elegance. The present lot has been realized in pink gold and preserved in very charming conditions. The argentè dial is the expression of the taste of the 50’s with applied rectangular and baton numerals nicely oxidized. Moreover, this case clothes one of the most spectacular and beautifully engineered rectangular movement, the caliber 9′ 90. This highly attractive work of art is one of the few rectangular movements created by Patek, measuring 18 × 25.6 mm, and has been released in 2 batches: numbers from 830 000 to 839 999 between 1934 and 1950 whilst the movement numbers 970 00 – 977 889 between 1947 and 1967. The extract from the archives, of which this lot is provided, confirms these informations line the watch has been produced in 1954. Their rarity as well as their timeless design makes these pieces very collectable and this 2480 is a really interesting piece.

Accompanied by a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in rose gold in 1954 and its subsequent sale on 15 December 1954.