Patek Philippe

Christie's, Geneva, November 2015, Lot 326

Family of the Original Owner

Sales of complicated wristwatches were devastated by the Great Depression of the early 1930s, and brands like Patek Philippe were in desperate need of a product with more “mass market” appeal to stay afloat. This is exactly what the Stern brothers set out to do after taking over the company in 1932. A slew of renowned references were introduced as a result, with the reference 96 released that same year, soon followed by a series of chronographs including the 130, 530 and 1463.

The chronograph is one of the pillars of watchmaking. Deceptively simple looking, a truly well-executed chronograph has the potential to go on to define a brand. One need only look at the effect that the Speedmaster had on Omega, the El Primero for Zenith, or the Datograph on Lange. Being arguably the most prestigious watch brand in the world, Patek Philippe naturally has several iconic chronographs under their belt, with the reference 1463 perhaps being the most legendary.

Nicknamed “Tasti Tondi” for the use of round and decorated pushers, a first for Patek Philippe, reference 1463 was also the first waterproof chronograph when it was released in 1940. This was achieved using a screw-down case back, in conjunction with the larger round pushers. Throughout its production run which lasted until 1969, 720 watches of the reference were produced across 3 metals, with approximately 400 of them produced in the present yellow gold. The pushers serve to make the watch instantly recognizable and certainly lend to the sporty aesthetic that Patek Philippe wished to imbue. Owing to its waterproof capabilities, it can indeed be said that reference 1463 was the brand’s first ever sports chronograph.

The mythical status of reference 1463 is reflected in its desirability on the market, with individual factors then elevating the truly spectacular examples. The present watch is offered in excellent condition, with a very strong case featuring crisp hallmarks and dial in very attractive overall condition. This is the second ever time the watch has appeared on the market, with the only other transaction being when the family of the original owner put it up for auction in 2015.

Vintage Patek Philippe chronographs stand out as some of the most beautiful and celebrated watches ever created, with the reference 1463 standing out as one of the most distinct and significant of the family. The present lot represents an unmissable opportunity for all serious collectors to own an excellent example of a truly important reference, from one of the most famed brands in the world.