.jpg?w=1)
.jpg?w=1)
.jpg?w=1)
.jpg?w=1)
Lot Essay
To many watch collectors, the Patek Philippe reference 2499 is the most perfect vintage wristwatch ever created. With ideal proportions and unmatched dial design, few watches are surrounded by such mythical appeal; an absolute must for the discerning collector.
The present watch is not only eye-catching as a third series reference 2499 but more particularly because the case markings are distinctive as one of the very few examples made specifically for the American market. Upon close examination, the back of the lower right lug and the buckle are stamped ‘18k’, the interior of the back is unusually engraved with the Patek Philippe ‘HOX’ code for watches imported into the United States, it is more usually seen engraved on the movement balance bridge. These case markings show that this watch was destined for export to the U.S. from the time of its manufacture.
All examples of reference 2499 are important and scarce survivals to be treasured and preserved. This attractive third series watch displays honest overall wear from normal use with good case proportions and quite well-defined fluting to the lugs. The case was made by Wenger, one of Geneva’s best case makers at the time, indicated by the number 1 within a key symbol to the inside of the snap on back. The dial has undergone gentle cleaning in the past, yet displays full hard enamel signature and scales.
A worthy and wearable example from this most legendary of Patek Philippe’s models with the rare distinction of being made for the American market.
The present watch is not only eye-catching as a third series reference 2499 but more particularly because the case markings are distinctive as one of the very few examples made specifically for the American market. Upon close examination, the back of the lower right lug and the buckle are stamped ‘18k’, the interior of the back is unusually engraved with the Patek Philippe ‘HOX’ code for watches imported into the United States, it is more usually seen engraved on the movement balance bridge. These case markings show that this watch was destined for export to the U.S. from the time of its manufacture.
All examples of reference 2499 are important and scarce survivals to be treasured and preserved. This attractive third series watch displays honest overall wear from normal use with good case proportions and quite well-defined fluting to the lugs. The case was made by Wenger, one of Geneva’s best case makers at the time, indicated by the number 1 within a key symbol to the inside of the snap on back. The dial has undergone gentle cleaning in the past, yet displays full hard enamel signature and scales.
A worthy and wearable example from this most legendary of Patek Philippe’s models with the rare distinction of being made for the American market.