246 Patek Philippe Very Fine and Large, Chronograph Wristwatch in Yellow Gold, With Tachymetric Scale Dial, Reference 530, Extract from the Archives

Estimate: € 200,000 –⁠ 400,000

Sold € 260,000

Model: Chronograph
Reference: 530
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1953
Movement: Manual
Caliber: 13
Case N°: 513037
Movement N°: 868589
Dimensions: 36.5 mm
Signed: Dial, movement and case
Accessories: Extract from the Archives

Very few references produced by Patek Philippe are capable of making the heart of every single vintage watch lover beat faster. Among these creations can be listed as the 530 chronograph. The elder brother, in terms of size, of the reference 130, the 530 has the classic Calatrava style and with its circa 37 mm diameter, considerably increases its presence on a male wrist. Introduced to the market in 1937, reference 530 is one of Patek Philippe’s rarest chronograph wristwatches ever produced and thus one of the most sought after. In production for around 20 years, it has been manufactured in stainless steel, pink or yellow gold. It is also curious to note that the yellow gold and the stainless steel variants of this reference are known to have been made with two different bracelet widths between the lugs (19 mm., such as the present watch, or 21.5 mm). Still today one of the rarest and largest vintage chronograph models manufactured by the firm, the 530 is certainly one of the most exclusive and it becomes even more so when found in exceptional conditions such as the lot offered here. At a first glance, it is possible to understand that this 530 has spent most of its life in a safe box: this rare find has evidently seldom been used and shows consequently only light signs of surface wear. The case is full and retains its original proportions to the best extent, highlighted by the sharp edges of the lugs and the crisp hallmarks. Surprisingly, the argentè dial has kept its original color and definition of the details: the hard enamel signature and scales are beautifully raised, all beautifully harmonizing with the applied gold baton and Arabic numerals. The reference 530 is certainly one of the most exclusive and attractive watches a connoisseur can aspire to own and the present lot can be considered as one of the most important and exciting ever appeared to auction in all these years.