The 5 Most Expensive Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Watches Sold At Sotheby's

P atek Philippe has long been synonymous with the highest levels of craftsmanship and innovation in watchmaking. Among its most coveted creations are the Perpetual Calendar models, which combine intricate complications with timeless design. Sotheby’s global network of auction locations have seen many superb examples pass through our flagship watch sales. Below we recap the top 5 most expensive Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar watches sold by Sotheby's.

1. Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Reference 1518 Circa 1948, 9,570,900 USD

Patek Philippe Watch — Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Reference 1518

The Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Reference 1518 in pink gold was sold in December 2021 for 9,570,900 USD. This specific model holds a special place in horological history. Introduced in 1941, it was the first serially produced perpetual calendar chronograph not only for Patek Philippe but also for all brands. This specific example was crafted in 1948 and stood out for its pink gold case and matching pink dial—a rare configuration that enhanced its aesthetic appeal. Of the 281 total examples of the Patek Philippe Reference 1518, only 58 were cased in pink gold with just 14 known examples featuring the pink-on-pink design.

The watch’s provenance adds another layer of significance. Originally purchased by Prince Tewfik Adil “T.A.” Toussoun of Egypt in 1951, this piece remained in his possession throughout his life. Prince Tewfik was a direct descendant of Mohamed Ali, the founder of modern Egypt, and lived a life marked by historical upheaval and academic achievement. The watch was discovered in a safety deposit box after his passing in remarkably well-preserved fashion, with its case and dial in near-original condition. Its impeccable condition, combined with its royal provenance and rarity, made this Patek Philippe Reference 1518 a truly extraordinary collector's item.

2. Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Reference 2499, 2nd Series Circa 1957, 60,265,000 HKD

This Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Reference 2499 in pink gold was sold in April 2022 for 60,265,000 HKD. Retailed by the prestigious Italian retailer Gobbi Milano, it was a rare and significant piece in the world of horology. First offered at auction 15 years ago, this watch fetched 2.7 million Swiss Francs and set a world record for a Patek Philippe Reference 2499. Among the nine known pink gold 2nd series examples, this particular watch is unique due to the retailer's signature on the dial.

Gobbi Milano was established in 1842 and has been a prominent name in watchmaking, particularly after becoming Clockmaker to the Royal Court in 1852. The firm is now in its sixth generation and is well-known for retailing prestigious timepieces like this Patek Philippe.This Patek Philippe Reference 2499 watch remains in original condition, with well-preserved lugs and a beautifully aged dial. Its rarity and historical significance make it one of the most collectible vintage watches, representing Patek Philippe's mastery of design and technical prowess.

3. Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Reference 2499, 1st Series Circa 1952

The Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Reference 2499 was sold in November 2018. Signed by Asprey, it was a possibly unique and highly significant timepiece. Made in 1952 and featuring the London retailer's signature on the dial, this watch holds the record for the most expensive Patek Philippe Reference 2499 ever sold at auction. At a Sotheby’s auction, it achieved a staggering $3.88 million and successfully surpassed the previous record held by a platinum Patek Philippe Reference 2499 owned by Eric Clapton.

The engraving on the back of the watch added an element of mystery, as it commemorates "RC 25th May 1956," though the identity of "RC" remains unknown. This watch serves as a barometer for the Patek Philippe collector community, showing that early and special examples in good condition are highly sought after.

4. Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Reference 1518, Pink Gold Patek Philippe Circa 1946, 3,871,500 USD

The Patek Philippe's Perpetual Calendar Reference 1518 was sold in June 2023 for 3,871,500 USD. It was a monumental piece in the brand's history as the first serially produced perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch. Introduced in 1941, this reference set the standard for haute horology. The majority of the 281 examples were cased in yellow gold, with only 58 in pink gold. Of these pink gold versions, the Pink on Pink variant is particularly rare, with only 15 known examples.

The featured watch was in exceptional condition, with sharp case details and a warm patina on the dial. This piece is further distinguished by its long Patek Philippe signature, making it one of the seven known pink-on-pink examples with this feature. This reference had been owned by notable collectors, including royalty, adding to its allure and significance in the world of watch collecting.

5. Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Reference 2499, 3rd Series Circa 1971, 23,520,000 HKD

This Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Reference 2499, 3rd series was sold in October 2018 for 23,520,000 HKD. Its pink gold material rendered it a potentially a one-of-a-kind watch, further enhanced by its Tiffany & Co. retailer signature. The watch, manufactured in 1971 and sold in 1972, is in outstanding original condition with an unpolished case and a well-preserved dial. It was one of only six known examples of the 3rd series in pink gold, making it extremely rare.

This watch has remained in private hands since it first surfaced at auction in 2005, where it sold for over 750,000 USD. Its remarkable condition and the rarity of the Tiffany signature, made it a significant piece for collectors. Each of these timepieces showcased the pinnacle of Patek Philippe's craftsmanship and holds a distinguished place in the world of watch collecting. Their provenance, rarity, and exceptional condition contributed to their high value and desirability at auction.

Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar watches are celebrated not only for their technical complexity but also for their historical and cultural significance. The examples highlighted here, sold at Sotheby’s, represent the pinnacle of watch collecting, offering a glimpse into the rich history and enduring legacy of one of the world’s most esteemed watchmakers. These timepieces are not just watches but artifacts of horological mastery, each with its unique story and place in history.

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