Lot Essay
With Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch with raised hour markers in gold in 1947 and its subsequent sale on 26 January 1949.
Whereas to many collectors reference 1518, in its standard yellow version, is the ultimate vintage complicated wristwatch, the "pink on pink" variant of this landmark model must be considered an all time highlight in Patek Philippe's 20th century production. In fact, until today only eight examples of this smart combination, including the present one which was never before offered at auction, are known to have survived.
The incredibly charismatic dial appears to have never been restored or cosmetically enhanced in any way. The hard enamel signature and scales are, consequently, as raised as one would hope for. Most importantly, with time the rose tone has taken on a bronze-coloured hue, adding to its overall appeal. The case, unmolested and without signs of careless polishing, impresses any beholder with its healthy feel and its full bodied lugs. Last but not least the hallmark to the left band is clearly visible and the pinholes to the lugs are not worn out.
The combination of the incredibly attractive dial, freshness to the market and fascinating original condition render this watch particularly attractive to the demanding collector.
Reference 1518
Reference 1518 was launched in 1941 and according to literature, only 281 examples were made until 1954, the majority cased in yellow gold (see lot 83 in this auction). It was furthermore the first perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch produced in series by any watch company. The model was later replaced by reference 2499 (see lots 159 and 249 in this auction), also a perpetual calendar chronograph, but with a wider diameter and fluted lugs.
Reference 1518 is illustrated in Patek Philippe Wristwatches by Martin Huber & Alan Banbery, first edition p. 231 pl. 386, second edition p. 303 pl. 459, and in Armbanduhren - 100 Jahre Entwicklungsgeschichte by Kahlert, Mühe, Brunner, second edition p. 127.
Whereas to many collectors reference 1518, in its standard yellow version, is the ultimate vintage complicated wristwatch, the "pink on pink" variant of this landmark model must be considered an all time highlight in Patek Philippe's 20th century production. In fact, until today only eight examples of this smart combination, including the present one which was never before offered at auction, are known to have survived.
The incredibly charismatic dial appears to have never been restored or cosmetically enhanced in any way. The hard enamel signature and scales are, consequently, as raised as one would hope for. Most importantly, with time the rose tone has taken on a bronze-coloured hue, adding to its overall appeal. The case, unmolested and without signs of careless polishing, impresses any beholder with its healthy feel and its full bodied lugs. Last but not least the hallmark to the left band is clearly visible and the pinholes to the lugs are not worn out.
The combination of the incredibly attractive dial, freshness to the market and fascinating original condition render this watch particularly attractive to the demanding collector.
Reference 1518
Reference 1518 was launched in 1941 and according to literature, only 281 examples were made until 1954, the majority cased in yellow gold (see lot 83 in this auction). It was furthermore the first perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch produced in series by any watch company. The model was later replaced by reference 2499 (see lots 159 and 249 in this auction), also a perpetual calendar chronograph, but with a wider diameter and fluted lugs.
Reference 1518 is illustrated in Patek Philippe Wristwatches by Martin Huber & Alan Banbery, first edition p. 231 pl. 386, second edition p. 303 pl. 459, and in Armbanduhren - 100 Jahre Entwicklungsgeschichte by Kahlert, Mühe, Brunner, second edition p. 127.