Patek Philippe

• Cal. 17-250É, photo-electric movement, 29 jewels • silvered dial, elongated baton indexes • gilt-metal square case, solar panel to top, hinged back • case numbered, dial and movement signed

There is movement to the balance, however it will require service in order to run consistently. The dial is in good order with the exception of a spot near 5 o'clock. The case has acquired a patina over the years as to be expected. Hand-scratched small marking to the bottom of the case below the case number, likely from a watchmaker or retailer. The case is in good condition with some slight scuffs to the leather.
"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.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

With an Extract from the Archives confirming sale on July 4th, 1963. Together with original fitted presentation case.

Patek Philippe began developing photo-electric technology before 1950, and at the time, harnessing light to produce energy was cutting-edge technology. Patek Philippe's photo-electric clock was not only the first application of this technology in a horological piece, but the first civilian use of solar power.

Solar-powered desk timepieces such as the present lot were the first freestanding, portable timepieces to be operated by means other than the traditional mechanical movement. Along with the advent of the electromechanical and quartz movements, this solar powered milestone was one of several significant advances in the third quarter of the 20th century that threatened to render the mechanical movements obsolete. 

The photo-electric movement on the present example functions by a combination of several different mechanical processes.  Based on the watch movement cal. 17-250, the present lot's movement uses the upper solar panel to collect artificial or natural light.  The light is then transmitted via wires to a battery that winds the mechanical cal. 17-250É gilt-metal movement.