.jpg?w=1)
Lot Essay
With Patek Philippe Certificate of Origin dated 16 December 2009, portfolio photographs of the current watch, original box with winding mechanism, adaptors and outer packaging.
Patek Philippe introduced reference 5159 in 2007 with a larger case than its predecessor reference 5059. It was first manufactured in yellow and white gold and since 2010 is available in pink gold.
The current watch is the only known example of a 5159 with an engraved case, dial and deployant clasp and is believed to be the prototype for the reference 5160 currently in production. The present 5159 was customized to special order based on an antique design proposed to the firm by the original owner. It is believed that Patek Philippe were so pleased with the results that they introduced the reference 5160 as a result. One can note that the current engraved design is very different to the design used on the reference 5160 and has a very subtle blued steel finish very similar to the antique design used as the study for the engraving.
Presented in outstanding overall condition this prototype reference 5159 is a true collector's trophy and can be foreseen to be a historically interesting watch for the future.
This lot had an endangered species strap (indicated by the CITES symbol next to the lot number). This strap is shown for display purposes only and has been removed and retained by Christie's prior to shipment to the sale site. In some cases the strap my be available for collection free of charge. For more information please refer to the IMPORTANT NOTICES AND EXPLANATION OF CATALOGUING PRACTICE at the back of this catalogue and contact the Watch Department.
Patek Philippe introduced reference 5159 in 2007 with a larger case than its predecessor reference 5059. It was first manufactured in yellow and white gold and since 2010 is available in pink gold.
The current watch is the only known example of a 5159 with an engraved case, dial and deployant clasp and is believed to be the prototype for the reference 5160 currently in production. The present 5159 was customized to special order based on an antique design proposed to the firm by the original owner. It is believed that Patek Philippe were so pleased with the results that they introduced the reference 5160 as a result. One can note that the current engraved design is very different to the design used on the reference 5160 and has a very subtle blued steel finish very similar to the antique design used as the study for the engraving.
Presented in outstanding overall condition this prototype reference 5159 is a true collector's trophy and can be foreseen to be a historically interesting watch for the future.
This lot had an endangered species strap (indicated by the CITES symbol next to the lot number). This strap is shown for display purposes only and has been removed and retained by Christie's prior to shipment to the sale site. In some cases the strap my be available for collection free of charge. For more information please refer to the IMPORTANT NOTICES AND EXPLANATION OF CATALOGUING PRACTICE at the back of this catalogue and contact the Watch Department.