19 Patek Philippe Very Rare and Fine, Open Face Pocket Watch, in Pink Gold, Ruby-Set Enamel Dial Depicting the Portrait of King Saud bin Abdul Aziz, Reference 600/1, With Extract from the Archives

Estimate: €20,000 –⁠ 40,000

Model: Pocket Watch
Reference: 600/1
Case Material: Pink Gold
Year: 1956
Movement: Manual
Caliber: 17–170
Case N°: 694709
Movement N°: 931 426
Dimensions: 44,5 mm
Signed: Dial, Case and Movement
Accessories: Extract from the Archives

The reference 600 was officially launched in 1933 and remained in production until 1969: although it is a time-only watch, it still represents one of the most desired modern style pocket watches ever produced. Made with all the 4 noble materials, this Patek Philippe 600 can be considered an absolute chimera for some of its characteristics that is difficult to find on other similar models. The number of productions of these objects is really low and even lower is the number of pieces that has passed through the auction market: for this reason the lot offered here is a really rare chance and opportunity to purchase an unusual example of high craftsmanship. The present watch is part of a small series of 200 open face dress watches made as special order for the household of King Saud bin Abdul Aziz, in commemoration of his accession to the throne the same year, after his father and the country’s first King Abdul Aziz al Saud passed away. The cases for the ref. 600/1R were generally made by Wenger, not Vichet as we see with the regular production ref. 600s. For this series has been used the reference 600/1 especially realized with enamel dial, while the reference 600 had a standard metal dial: it is interesting to notice that these two references despite being almost identical had a different diameter (5.8 mm the first one and 4.8 mm the second one). This watch distinguishes itself for its very good overall conditions and the beauty of the ivory-colored enamel dials with ruby-set numerals, not the typical white enamel, it is the darker amber enamel favored by the likes of Henry Graves, Jr. and seen on the Graves Supercomplication. The King’s portrait has been executed with the complex technique of the Grand Feu or Big Fire and the result is simply perfect. These creations were given as gifts to dignitaries or friends of His Majesty and nowadays are extremely rare find.