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Lot Essay
With Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1969 and its subsequent sale on 30 April 1970.
Ref. 1463 is a staple among collectors. The stronger, thicker, larger case, compared to its non-waterproof counterpart ref. 130 gifts this model with a modern appeal, without betraying the exquisitely vintage feel of the watch. Created for a much more intense use than ref. 130, it is no surprise that most of the examples on the market today come with heavily polished cases. An unspoiled example is a dream, and a rare opportunity, for collectors. In fact, the present specimen is the exception that proves the rule. Its case shows no sign of any cosmetic intervention, and fully retains its original condition: the step of the bezel as well as the edges of the lugs, are razor sharp. The original satin finish on the band untouched. Even the "sunburst" finish of the pushers is nearly mint, evidence of a life spent in the comfort of a safe, rather than on a wrist. On top of all this, it has acquired over the years an even layer of tarnish that grants it a warmer glow than a polished example.
This model was produced in 3 series: the first, with flatter lugs; the second, with downturned lugs but the dial of the first series - with the railway outer minute divisions, the third, with the same case of the second series, but a simpler dial layout. For some reason, in the early days of collecting first and second series dials were deemed more marketable. Consequently many third series models had their dials changed. Again, this example breaks the rule: it mounts its original third series transitional dial, with all scales beautifully raised, with the exception of the rare and highly sought-after Tiffany signature as the connoisseur would expect, being it added by Tiffany in New york in non-indelible ink after receiving the watch. The slight curvature of the signature is due to the presence of the indexes on the dial when it was applied: the extra thickness would slightly warp the stamp. This kind of signature warping is very typical of watches from this period, and sign of an absolutely original, unrestored dial. A similar example can be seen on the Tiffany world time ref. 2523 sold by Christie's on November 17, 2008, lot 178.
Ref. 1463 is a staple among collectors. The stronger, thicker, larger case, compared to its non-waterproof counterpart ref. 130 gifts this model with a modern appeal, without betraying the exquisitely vintage feel of the watch. Created for a much more intense use than ref. 130, it is no surprise that most of the examples on the market today come with heavily polished cases. An unspoiled example is a dream, and a rare opportunity, for collectors. In fact, the present specimen is the exception that proves the rule. Its case shows no sign of any cosmetic intervention, and fully retains its original condition: the step of the bezel as well as the edges of the lugs, are razor sharp. The original satin finish on the band untouched. Even the "sunburst" finish of the pushers is nearly mint, evidence of a life spent in the comfort of a safe, rather than on a wrist. On top of all this, it has acquired over the years an even layer of tarnish that grants it a warmer glow than a polished example.
This model was produced in 3 series: the first, with flatter lugs; the second, with downturned lugs but the dial of the first series - with the railway outer minute divisions, the third, with the same case of the second series, but a simpler dial layout. For some reason, in the early days of collecting first and second series dials were deemed more marketable. Consequently many third series models had their dials changed. Again, this example breaks the rule: it mounts its original third series transitional dial, with all scales beautifully raised, with the exception of the rare and highly sought-after Tiffany signature as the connoisseur would expect, being it added by Tiffany in New york in non-indelible ink after receiving the watch. The slight curvature of the signature is due to the presence of the indexes on the dial when it was applied: the extra thickness would slightly warp the stamp. This kind of signature warping is very typical of watches from this period, and sign of an absolutely original, unrestored dial. A similar example can be seen on the Tiffany world time ref. 2523 sold by Christie's on November 17, 2008, lot 178.