PATEK PHILIPPE | A FINE PLATINUM RECTANGULAR WRISTWATCH WITH WHITE GOLD BRACELET MADE IN 1930

Dial: silveredCaliber: cal. 9'" manual winding movement, jeweledMovement number: 823372Case: platinum, hooded lugs, stepped sides, snap on case backCase number: 609397Closure: 18k white gold Patek Philippe brick-link bracelet with folding claspDimensions: length 36 mm, width 25 mm, bracelet circumference approximately 185 mmSigned: case, dial and movementAccessories: Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming the date of sale on August 24, 1931 with applied platinum indexes, one receipt confirming a repair deposit from Patek Philippe dated May 3, 1985

CASECase in good condition with light wear and scuffs. The case, in our opinion has received a light professional polish. Left side of both hooded lugs with some small nicks. Case back with some small surface scuffs. Bracelet with light gentle wear. Buckle with some superficial surface lines. Case and bracelet overall remain highly attractive.Of note: the bracelet is in white gold and the watch itself in platinum. One can imagine that the bracelet was provided after sale, but within due course as it is illustrated in the 1953 photograph.DIALDial was previously washed with some surface discrepancies. Some dust and surface markings. Area around the "5" index with some discrepancy and wear. MOVEMENTThe movement is running at time of cataloging, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time or duration of the power reserve and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."

With its cleanly retained lines and attractive stepped sides, the present lot is a true pleasure and beauty to behold. It is rare to find a piece nearly a century old in such excellent condition, and often rectangular watches have suffered extensive polishing over the years. Not so with the present example; indeed, it is hard to imagine that it was worn much at all. Our only evidence that it was worn is the charming and historic father-son image of director Josef von Sternberg wearing the watch with his baby son Nicholas on his shoulders, on location in Kyoto filming Anahatan in 1953.