Patek Philippe

Christie's, Geneva, November 2013, Lot 193

Antiquorum, Geneva, October 2007, Lot 530

Sotheby's, New York, January 1990, Lot 538

The present example is prominently illustrated and described in Patek Philippe Orologi complicati da polso by Paolo De Vecchi and Giorgio Gregato, p. 64-65.

This Patek Philippe 1563 is the epitome of rarity. Not only does it represent one of just three known examples, it is also unique in its own right.

The others speak to the significance of this watch and the reference, one which has remained in private hands and the other formerly in the collection of Duke Ellington now resides, in perpetuum at the Patek Philippe museum. The known 1563 are the following:

The Doctor's: Movement 862'420 & Case 630'552

Duke Ellington: Movement 863'791 & Case 630'551

Lot 18: Movement 867'196 & Case 657'132

The 1563, a variant of the revered 1463 chronograph and 1436 split chronograph, bears the case of the former, which was enlarged to house the movement of the later - indeed it bears ‘1463’ to the inside case back while the extract confirms its 1563 designation.

The dial is what sets this watch apart from its direct relations and contemporaries. The Breguet numerals and track are set in hard enamel, however interestingly - and confirmed by its extract from the archives - the numerals and hands are set with luminous material and is thus the only known example. The luminous material provides this watch with so much character, where there would be simple black and gold, the additional of now brown creates depth and an unparalleled vintage appeal.

The case is in superb condition, having been cherished for over 10 years since it was last seen at auction. The hall marks are fresh and the lugs sharp and full in proportion. The case back features an inscription giving the observer a glimpse into the watch’s past. Engraved is the name L. Estée and the initials S.G.H this detail is still unexplained but adds to the romance of the piece all the same.

Like many of the Patek Philippe in this collection this watch dazzles in its elegance and simplicity. It is the perfect size at 35mm in diameter which allows it a versatility that is denied to larger modern chronographs - this combined with the design of the case and dial make what can only be described as a mid-century masterpiece.

It is fair to say that this watch will crown a collection of virtually any calibre and given its scarcity its sale represents an opportunity that is unlikely to come about again for a significant period of time.