Patek Philippe

• cal. 9-90 manual-winding movement stamped twice with the seal of Geneva, 18 jewels • gilt dial, applied pink gold Arabic and dagger indexes, feuille hands, subsidiary seconds • curved chamfered 18k pink gold rectangular case, faceted crystal, snap back • case, dial and movement signed • with an 18k gold Patek Philippe buckle

Movement running at the time of cataloging however it has not been tested for accuracy and may need service at the buyer's discretion and expense. Overall, a very clean and handsome example. The January 2014 service paperwork from Patek Philippe lists 'clean, overhaul, refinishing hands, re-oil and regulate the movement, dial restoration, new crystal, and 2 new spring bars'. The movement is presently running, however it will require service in the future. The dial has been expertly restored by Patek Philippe and is in very attractive cosmetic condition, with some weakness to the hard enamel signature. The case has been expertly polished, with some light surface scuffs throughout, and a clear hallmark between the lugs. The crown is a modern Patek Philippe replacement. Please note that the service paperwork erroneously lists the watch as 'Ref 2442J' whereas the Extract from the Archives correctly lists the metal as rose gold, as corresponds to the watch and the official Patek Philippe Archives. The present lot contains endangered species which is subject to restrictions upon international export. Accordingly, the strap will be removed prior to shipment outside the United States.
"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."

Accompanied by an Extract from the Archives confirming sale on February 26th 1958. With a facsimile of Patek Philippe service paperwork from January 2014, factory service box, and a facsimile of the 1963 receipt of purchase for $1,000. 

The unmistakable curves of Ref. 2442 has earned it iconic status among collectors, who know the model by nicknames such as the 'Banana' or the even more illustrative 'Marilyn Monroe'. Indeed, the contours of the watch are appealing from both a tactile and aesthetic perspective. Measuring 43 millimeters in length and with a pronounced width of 27 millimeters at the ends, it is a strikingly large watch from this time period. With its daring and shapely proportions, this model has become one of the most sought-after 'form' watches.

Offered for the first time at auction by a descendant of the original owner, the present lot offers an exceedingly rare opportunity for collectors of vintage Patek Philippe wristwatches. It is estimated only about two hundred Ref. 2442 examples were created, with about three-quarters of those having been made in yellow gold. Indeed, rose gold examples very rare, and are highly sought after during their infrequent offerings at auction. 

Ref. 2442 is illustrated in Martin Huber & Alan Banbery, Patek Philippe, Vol. II, p. 136, and in the Patek Philippe Museum book, Vol. II, p. 219.