72 Patek Philippe Very Fine, Rare and Attractive, Calatrava, Automatic Wristwatch in Platinum, With Certificate of Origin and Extract From the Archives, Reference 3429
Estimate: €35,000 – 70,000
Sold (Premium)€39,000
Model: Calatrava
Reference: 3429
Case Material: Platinum
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1962
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 27–460
Case N°: 2 621 526
Movement N°: 1 112 661
Dimensions: 35 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
Accessories: Certificate of Origin and Extract from the Archives
Literature: Sold at Phillips “The Geneva Watch Auction: NINE—Geneva Auctions 11–12 May 2019” as lot 64 for CHF 47,500
The reference 3429 replaced reference 3415, with the sole difference between the two being the introduction of a new caliber 27–460 replacing the retiring caliber 12–600 AT, and it was in production from 1960 to 1969. Research indicates that approximately 1000 timepieces were made in mostly yellow and pink gold, with approximately 15 pieces in white gold, and only two known in platinum. With its 2-piece Wenger-made case featuring a screw-down case back and PP crown, the watch was considered waterproof. Extremely rare, the present lot is one of the two examples known at the moment manufactured in platinum and still preserved in remarkable original conditions. The water-resistant case with screw-down case back exhibits strong proportions, clean edges and sharp hallmarks. The dial is fairly preserved, featuring a raised hard enamel signature, baton indexes and hands. It is interesting to note the reference 3429 is one of only a handful of 1950/60s Patek Philippe models to feature the “PP” crown, including the iconic reference 2526. The present lot, of course, is no exception with the clear visible detail on the crown. This rare, elegant, and classic time capsule of mid 20th-century horology is absolutely fascinating and surely one of the rarest timely waterproof model ever produced by Patek, further is offered with the certificate of origin and extract from the archives confirming the production of the watch in 1962 and its subsequent sale in July 1963.