Patek Philippe

• cal. 17-250 mechanical movement powered through a photo-electric cell, 28 jewels, the battery recharged by the solar panel • silvered dial, circular gilt chapter ring • cylindrical case with 4 individual polychrome cloisonné enamel panels depicting scenes of pink flamingos, giraffes and elephants, domed top portraying gazelles running in the safari, enamelist signature MM (Marie-Francoise Martin) • dial and movement signed and numbered, case numbered

Movement in working order when cataloging. Solar panel with some light signs of oxidization, dial is clean and intact, chapter ring with light discoloration, both normal and consistent considering its age. Enamel panels in very good condition, three small hairlines underneath the enamel panel. Overall in very good condition, rare piece. Please note the movement has not been tested for time keeping and a service might be required at the buyer's expense.
"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 a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives and fitted box.

As a pioneer of horological innovation, Patek Philippe introduced its patented light-powered Dome table clock in the mid-1950s which derives its motive power from a source of light by the means of at least one photoelectric cell.  

According to research, the first ever solar clocks housing mechanical movement which bore the reference 701 was introduced in 1956. The present example of dome clock, with the reference 788/7 is part of the first and now highly sought-after series fitted with a 17-250 mechanical movement, electrically wound and powered through the solar cells.