PATEK PHILIPPE | REF 531UNIQUE YELLOW GOLD WRISTWATCH DESIGNED BY RICHARD BORDENACHMADE IN 1937

Dial: gilt, onyx indexes Calibre: cal. 12''120 manual winding Movement number: 827'852 Case: 18k yellow gold, snap-on back Case number: 617'343 Closure: Patek Philippe alligator strap and 18k yellow gold buckle Dimensions: 33 mm Signed: case, dial and movement Accessories: Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming date of sale on May 31st, 1938

MVT: is running at the time of cataloguing. CASE: in honest condition with polishing and wear. There is oxidation visible mainly around the crown and on the back of the case. DIAL: in good condition with fine surface marks visible when closely examining the dial. Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense. Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band. Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.
"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."

This Patek Philippe Reference 531 is unique. Created for Richard Bordenache and executed to his design.  It is, in essence, his style immortalised. The form is quintessential 30s, specifically late 30s, and embodies a range of styles that Bordernache was undoubtedly exposed to.   The archive image photographs of the watch when new show brutal, almost fascist like lines, and is accentuated by the engraved minute track; the dial, unmistakably Art Deco, features an enamel inscription stating ‘This timepiece was made by Patek Philippe & Co to the design of Mr Richard Bordenache 1938’.     Born in 1905 Richard Bordenache was to become a leading figure in Romanian Architecture.  Studying in the Romainan School in Rome, he went on to design numerous buildings in Romania following the styles that had influenced him in France and Italy. Though little concrete information about Mr Bordenache is readily available, it was in the interwar years that gained him significant recognition.  He was awarded the State Prize for Architecture in 1954 for which he was one of three laureates. His studies and time abroad clearly influenced not only his architectural style but also his more general aesthetic as can be seen in the present lot.

This watch, when compared to the original archive images, has clearly lived a life and the case has lost its sharp, rigid form, having now softened.  Nonetheless however this watch remains an incredibly special piece and poses a rare opportunity for any collector to add a truly one off piece to their collection.