199 Patek Philippe Very Unusual and Desirable Patek Philippe asymmetric wristwatch in yellow gold, Reference 3424, With Champagne Dial and Black Enamel Indexes, Designed by Gilbert Albert.

Estimate: € 75,000 –⁠ 150,000

Sold € 156,000

Model: Gilbert Albert
Reference: 3424
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1960's
Movement: Manual
Caliber: 8'''85
Case N°: 2633465
Movement N°: 857828
Dimensions: 27 x 39 mm
Signed: Dial, movement and case

Patek Philippe is probably the most illustrious watch brand in the world for beauty and quality of its creations. The great efficiency of the movement was granted by the technicians in Patek’s factory while the cases were supplied by many case makers such as Taubert for stainless steel one or Wenger just to name two. The beauty of those metal shells was notable and was more so for some particular creations with unusual shape. In 1955, Patek Philippe teamed up with Gilbert Albert, at the age of 24, a young renowned Genevan jewelry designer and artist. During the seven years he spent with the manufacturer, he created some of the firm's most daring designs, most notably the asymmetrical models from the "Ricochet" series. The present "Ricochet" watch is one of few examples of a reference 3424 in yellow gold with champagne dial which appeared to the public. In addition, this dial with black baton indexes in contrast with a shining champagne make this watch one of the most charismatic and ever produced by the Patek Philippe maison. The talented artist took his inspiration from his passion for modern art, notably works by Brancusi and Mondrian, the unusual yet timeless designs are considered as cutting-edge and unconventional today as they were when first produced 60 years ago. His designs were awarded the prestigious "Oscar" award at the Diamonds International Awards ten times - three for Patek Philippe, two for Omega, and five under his own name. There are few wristwatch models that have achieved a cult status like Gilbert Albert's Patek Philippe designs.