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Lot Essay
Truly a fresh to market horological treasure for the most discerning collector, this superb example of the reference 2508 is the sixteenth example to appear on the market and is offered in superlative condition with an early Gay Frères expandable bracelet. The dial, made by Stern Frères retains the original aesthetic from the day the watch first left Patek Philippe’s workshops demonstrated by the rich, hard enamel and pronounced definition of all letters and accents in the signature and minute track. The dial itself retains a beautiful sheen without a solitary blemish to be seen, the faceted dart and square indexes catching the light as it plays across the surface. The overall appeal is further enhanced by the Gay Frères expandable bracelet. Possibly the most renowned and appreciated Genevois jeweler from the mid-20th century, Gay Frères watch bracelets are much appreciated and considered highly collectible items themselves.
Considered by many to be among the pinnacles of Patek Philippe's mid-20th century design, the reference 2508 distinguishes itself from its "time-only" brethren with a uniquely balanced case design. The 2508 was Patek Philippe's first foray into waterproof case designs for non-complicated wristwatches. Previously, the only waterproof wristwatch was the reference 1463 chronograph, from which the 2508 would borrow the entirety of its form. The downturned lugs, perfectly proportioned dial, and screw-back case profile produce a masculine and most pleasing wrist presence not found in other Calatravas. It is calculated that less than 10 percent of the total production was fitted into a steel case. The 2508 could be considered a successor to the legendary reference 570, though with a "sportier" feel, and forerunner to "Amagnetic" references due to its "double case-back" design. Inside the 2508 beats the 27SC, covered by a metal dust cap to keep moisture and magnetism at bay - a trait found predominantly in "tool" watches, making this reference a unique offering in Patek Philippe's lineage.
An almost identical watch is illustrated in Patek Philippe Steel Watches, John Goldberger, 2010, p. 196-197. Other examples of reference 2508 are described and illustrated in Patek Philippe Museum - Patek Philippe Watches, Volume II, p. 230.
Considered by many to be among the pinnacles of Patek Philippe's mid-20th century design, the reference 2508 distinguishes itself from its "time-only" brethren with a uniquely balanced case design. The 2508 was Patek Philippe's first foray into waterproof case designs for non-complicated wristwatches. Previously, the only waterproof wristwatch was the reference 1463 chronograph, from which the 2508 would borrow the entirety of its form. The downturned lugs, perfectly proportioned dial, and screw-back case profile produce a masculine and most pleasing wrist presence not found in other Calatravas. It is calculated that less than 10 percent of the total production was fitted into a steel case. The 2508 could be considered a successor to the legendary reference 570, though with a "sportier" feel, and forerunner to "Amagnetic" references due to its "double case-back" design. Inside the 2508 beats the 27SC, covered by a metal dust cap to keep moisture and magnetism at bay - a trait found predominantly in "tool" watches, making this reference a unique offering in Patek Philippe's lineage.
An almost identical watch is illustrated in Patek Philippe Steel Watches, John Goldberger, 2010, p. 196-197. Other examples of reference 2508 are described and illustrated in Patek Philippe Museum - Patek Philippe Watches, Volume II, p. 230.