270 Patek Philippe An extremely well preserved, rare and historically important, Cloisonné Polychrome Enamel Dial Depicting the “Tropical Rain Forest” wristwatch in yellow gold, with extract from the archives and box, reference 2481.

Estimate: € 400.000 –⁠ 800.000

Few watches can stir the soul quite like the present one. At the intersection of high horology and fine art lies the cloisonné enamel dial, an expression of craftsmanship so pure, so painstaking, it verges on the spiritual. Here, every line is laid by hand, every color born of powdered oxides, fire, and alchemy. In this world of miniature masterpieces, the present Patek Philippe reference 2481 stands not just as a wristwatch, but as a cultural artifact of unmatched rarity and beauty. Introduced in 1950 and affectionately dubbed “King Size” by collectors, the reference 2481 was, at 36.5mm, a bold departure for Patek Philippe. Its sculptural case, designed by Bernard Dubois with sweeping claw lugs and a dramatically concave bezel, redefined what a time-only watch could be. Beneath its assertive form beats the caliber 27SC, one of the finest center-seconds movements of its time. But it is through the dial, that this watch transcends into legend. Executed in the cloisonné technique, the “Tropical Rain Forest” scene bursts with life. Lush palms, ripe fruit, drops and a horizon painted in tones of cobalt and sunlit amber transport the wearer to a faraway world. The colors are rich, deep, and almost impossibly vibrant: a quality only found in vintage enamel, crafted with materials and methods long since banned. Raised hard enamel tracks, gold Roman numerals, and golden baton hands remind us: nothing here was compromised. Preserved in spectacular condition, this watch shows a fascinating oxidation. Its case retains its full, impressive proportions, with deep hallmarks and crisp lines. The enamel dial is has been preserved throughout the years in truly exceptional condition, with great color, depth, and soul. It is believed fewer than twenty examples with this dial motif were ever produced: the importance of the model is affirmed by Patek Philippe itself: two nearly identical examples are displayed in the Patek Philippe Museum. And as if provenance could shine brighter, this very watch was offered in the landmark 1989 Habsburg, Feldman - Antiquorum “The Art of Patek Philippe” sale, achieving CHF 96,000—a monumental result for its time. It is accompanied today by a Certificate of Authenticity and Extract from the Archives, confirming it's born with this dial and is all correct. Offered here is not merely a wristwatch, but a masterpiece that encapsulates the artistic ambition and technical prowess of Patek Philippe at its highest level. It is the kind of watch that comes along once in a generation—and leaves an indelible mark on those fortunate enough to encounter it. The present timepiece is legible for Tortella & Sons’ deep study upon request of the client.