146 Patek Philippe An incredibly rare, historically important and very early, Tasti Tondi, chronograph wristwatch in yellow gold, tropical two-tone dial, retailed by Beyer-Zürich, with extract from the archives, reference 1463.

Estimate: CHF 120,000 –⁠ 240,000

A reference that needs no introduction, the 1463, produced between 1940 and 1969, stands as one of the two Patek Philippe’s only vintage water-resistant chronograph and is affectionately known as “Tasti Tondi” for its distinctive round waterproof pushers. Yet, among the already rare and sought-after examples of this legendary model, this watch is something truly extraordinary. The first detail that immediately captures one’s attention is the dial: originally silver, it has gracefully evolved into a breathtaking two-tone pink-champagne patina, an effect that only time and careful preservation can create. Moreover, there’s a rarer and highly significant feature: the signature of Beyer, Zurich’s prestigious retailer, delicately placed on the dial. To date, this is the only known reference 1463 to bear this esteemed double signature, further elevating its desirability and historical importance. Traditionally, steel reference 1463 models feature straight lugs, while gold versions have downturned lugs. However, this particular yellow gold model features the same straight lugs as its steel counterparts, suggesting an intriguing hypothesis: at that time, Beyer may have commissioned this piece as a special order for a client who desired a gold chronograph with the same robust, sporty attributes as the steel version. The significance of this watch grows considering its case number, which dates its production to 1942, making it the earliest known yellow gold reference 1463 —predating previously recorded examples by over 150,000 case numbers. Given that no earlier yellow gold reference 1463 is known, it is likely that Patek Philippe initially used the steel case design before later refining the gold versions with downturned lugs. Preserved in remarkable condition, this timepiece is nothing short of a collector’s dream. With crisp hallmarks, an exceptionally unique dial, the only known Beyer signature, and a case that rewrites our understanding of the reference, this is an essential chapter in the history of Patek Philippe chronographs. For the discerning collector, this is not just an acquisition —it is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.