Lot Essay
With Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present in 1956 and its subsequent sale on 31 July 1957.
Since its launch in 1940, the desirability of the legendary reference 1463 has never ceased. Destined for a clientele in quest of an elegant yet sporty wristwatch, Patek Philippe's first chronograph model fitted with a water-resistant-type case and round chronograph buttons is as popular today as it was at the time of its introduction.
Purchased by an internationally renowned ophthalmologist specialized in the treatment of glaucoma at Patek Philippe in 1956, it was handed down to his grandson, the present owner, in 1977. Since then it has been carefully kept in a safe until its consignment to this auction.
Fesh to the market, the present "tasti tondi", Italian for round pushers as this model is lovingly described by collectors, is a charismatic example with well-preserved proportions and original pushers and crown. The case has obviously never been subject to careless polishing, consequently displaying sharp edges and crisp gold marks. The attractive two-tone silvered dial is in clearly unrestored condition and impresses by the beautifully raised hard enamel signature and scales and the combination of a matte centre and polished outer chapter ring, enhancing the captivating look of this fine chronograph wristwatch.
Reference 1643
Reference 1463 was launched in 1940 and remained in production until 1965, the case undergoing a number of improvements and changes to its shape over the years. The majority was cased in yellow gold, few examples in pink gold and stainless steel.
The model is illustrated in Patek Philippe Wristwatches by Martin Huber & Alan Banbery, second edition, p. 267.
Since its launch in 1940, the desirability of the legendary reference 1463 has never ceased. Destined for a clientele in quest of an elegant yet sporty wristwatch, Patek Philippe's first chronograph model fitted with a water-resistant-type case and round chronograph buttons is as popular today as it was at the time of its introduction.
Purchased by an internationally renowned ophthalmologist specialized in the treatment of glaucoma at Patek Philippe in 1956, it was handed down to his grandson, the present owner, in 1977. Since then it has been carefully kept in a safe until its consignment to this auction.
Fesh to the market, the present "tasti tondi", Italian for round pushers as this model is lovingly described by collectors, is a charismatic example with well-preserved proportions and original pushers and crown. The case has obviously never been subject to careless polishing, consequently displaying sharp edges and crisp gold marks. The attractive two-tone silvered dial is in clearly unrestored condition and impresses by the beautifully raised hard enamel signature and scales and the combination of a matte centre and polished outer chapter ring, enhancing the captivating look of this fine chronograph wristwatch.
Reference 1643
Reference 1463 was launched in 1940 and remained in production until 1965, the case undergoing a number of improvements and changes to its shape over the years. The majority was cased in yellow gold, few examples in pink gold and stainless steel.
The model is illustrated in Patek Philippe Wristwatches by Martin Huber & Alan Banbery, second edition, p. 267.