Patek Philippe 1436

Ref. 1436An extremely fine and rare yellow gold split seconds chronograph wristwatch with Breguet numerals

Manufacturer: Patek Philippe Year: 1947 Reference No: 1436 Movement No: 863'954 Case No: 646'709 Material: 18K yellow gold Calibre: Manual, cal. 13'', 25 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: 18K yellow gold PPCo pin buckle Dimensions: 33mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed Accessories: Accompanied by Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1947 with Breguet numerals and its subsequent sale on November 12, 1948 and original box. Literature: Examples of reference 1436 can be found in Patek Philippe Wristwatches, Volume 2, Second Edition Huber and Banbery pp.272-274. Whereas Patek Philippe’s perpetual calendar chronographs such as references 1518 and 2499 are models that participated in placing Patek Philippe within the top echelons of the horological Parthenon, the split seconds reference 1436 remained for decades the most complicated wristwatch made by the famed Geneva brand. What may seem like a regular chronograph is placed within the exclusive category of split seconds thanks to its extra hand. Watchmakers and connaisseurs agree on the fact that this type of chronograph is one of the most complex mechanisms to master due to the very tight tolerances. Reference 1436 is the first split seconds chronograph wristwatch that Patek Philippe ever produced in a series. Originally launched in 1938, the model was used as a "tool watch" to time horse or automobile racing, along with scientific experiments. Even though this reference was made for a surprising 33 years, production ceasing in 1971. Only 140 examples are known to this day, meaning that an average of 4 watches were produced each year. This is an exceedingly limited number, even by the production standards of the mid to late 20th century. The present watch is not only one of these ultra limited timepieces but it is only one of 16 known examples in yellow gold to feature applied Breguet numerals and as confirmed in the Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives. Part of the first generation models, the split seconds is triggered and reset by pushing the crown in. Later models feature a co-axial pusher in the crown. The movement of the present timepiece features the letters HOX stamped on the balance cock, signifying that the watch was destined for the North American market. In lovely overall appealing condition, the hallmarks on the case side and on the lug are nice and crisp, proof that the case has not undergone careless over polishing. The dial with Breguet numerals not only adds further collectability but adds amazing presence and charisma to the dial.