208 Patek Philippe Fresh to the Market, 35 years in the Same Collection, Possibly Unique and Extremely Well Preserved, Square Shape Wristwatch in Platinum, Center Seconds and Hinged Case, Published in “I Signori del Tempo - 300 Fabulous Vintage Wristwatches

Estimate: € 250,000 –⁠ 500,000

Sold € 754,000

Model: Carrè
Case Material: Platinum
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1920s
Movement: Manual
Case N°: 288653
Movement N°: 183 145
Dimensions: 29 × 29 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
Accessories: Extract from the Archives and Box
Literature: This Specific Watch is Published in “I Signori del Tempo - 300 Fabulous Vintage Wristwatches of Our Century” by Giampiero Negretti and Franco Nencini on page 186

Patek Philippe’s the 1920s and ’30s Art-Deco case designs are some of the most fascinating and deeply researched watches in the vintage market. Many models are, in fact, some of the rarest made by the brand having been produced in only very few examples. The present lot is a great example that, other than being an incredibly rare model, displays a very charismatic and fascinating personality. The watch was previously published in the book “I Signori del Tempo - 300 Fabulous Vintage Wristwatches of Our Century” by Giampiero Negretti and Franco Nencini on page 186, which was one of the first horological books to come out at the end of the ’80s, displaying the collections of fine connoisseurs of Patek Philippe and other brands. This square shape platinum wristwatch was manufactured at the beginning of the 1920s bearing the “center seconds” movement, which at the time was a very advanced and highly regarded characteristic from the more often seen separate “sub-seconds” counter. It is also important to mention the relatively big proportions of the hinged case, considering its overall length and thickness which were quite substantial for its time, compared to other square shape Patek wristwatches from the period. The dial bears the iconic “Breguet” numbers and the typical Art-Deco decorations at the boarders, finished in black enamel, a minute track, pear blue hands, and the long signature of the period “Patek, Philippe & Co”, it is an incredibly attractive and a very noble configuration. The serial numbers of the watch as well as the signature are still clearly visible on the case back together with a monogram to which no information is yet traceable. The present watch is a powerful early testimony of Patek Philippe tailor-made executions for special customers. Also, it is definitely among the most beautiful and prestigious Art-Deco Patek Philippe’s ever made. Kept in a private collection for decades, this is the chance to own a piece of history from Patek Philippe that speaks to all the philosophies of what the brand was and still is about.