Patek Philippe

• cal. 27-70 manual winding movement, stamped with the seal of Geneva, 24 jewels • matte silvered dial, applied baton indexes, twin apertures for day and month, three subsidiary dials for 24-hours register combined with constant seconds, 30-minute register combined with leap year indication, and date combined with moon-phases • 18k white gold polished case, concave bezel, down-turned stepped lugs, two round chronograph buttons in the band, sapphire crystal display back • case, dial and movement signed • with an 18k white gold Patek Philippe deployant clasp

Please note that the movement has not been checked for timekeeping accuracy and Sotheby's will not be held responsible for any repairs should they be required. The movement and chronograph are working at the time of cataloguing. Dial in very good condition. Case with very minor scuffs, appears to be unworn. **The leather strap of this wristwatch is made from endangered species; please refer to important notices for further information.**
"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."

Launched at Basel in 2004 and available from 2005, the reference 5970 replaced the smaller diameter reference 3970 and reverted the case style to a square chronograph pusher with sculpted shoulder more reminiscent of the first series reference 2499. The 5970 was initially launched only in white gold with the rose gold version available the following year, however both metals were discontinued in 2007 after only a short production period with the release of the platinum and diamond version, reference 5971. At Basel in 2008 Patek Philippe released the much anticipated yellow gold 5970 then promptly discontinued the model after only one year with the release of the platinum version in 2009, that was also discontinued after about one year.

The Patek Philippe reference 5970 was perhaps the most successful of the recent models, having been released as the demand for complications from the company rose and ceased prior to any production increases to meet demand, there was a constant waiting list for the reference throughout production with models selling at a premium on the open market.

The present watch is a great example of this reference 5970 and well-suited for any discerning watch collector.