Patek Philippe
Ref. 1518
An extremely well-preserved, important, and highly attractive pink gold perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch with moon phase, Italian calendar, tachymeter scale and bracelet
Manufacturer : Patek Philippe
Year : 1948
Reference No : 1518
Movement No : 867’522
Case No : 653’819
Material : 18K pink gold
Calibre : Manual, cal. 13’’’, 23 jewels
Bracelet/Strap : 18K pink gold bracelet, unsigned
Dimensions : 35mm Diameter
Signed : Case, dial and movement signed
Accessories : Accompanied by a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1948, and its subsequent sale on December 5th, 1950 The reference 1518 was the first perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch produced by any brand in series, and set the course for Patek Philippe’s dominance in the world of high-end Swiss watchmaking. So ahead of its time was its design, Patek Philippe continued to use its timeless aesthetic as the foundation for a long line of highly sought after successor models including the references 2499, 3970, 5970 and today’s 5270.
This landmark model can certainly be considered a must for any serious collector of vintage wristwatches but acquiring one has become more difficult given the scarcity of well-preserved examples coming to the market. Scholarship suggests that Patek Philippe produced approximately 281 examples. The majority in yellow gold, with pink gold specimens just a small fraction of the total production.
When introduced during the turmoil of World War II, the reference 1518’s design aesthetic was a new and modern look with clean lines, elegant proportions, and extended, curved lugs. The case, manufactured by Emile Vichet S. A. for Patek Philippe, evolved over the course of its 14 year history. Patek’s exquisitely finished, manually wound caliber 13’’’130 Q is housed inside.
The state of preservation of this example is absolutely impressive, clearly very sparingly worn over its 76-year lifespan. Its case retains the strong lug definition, beautifully brushed, and polished surfaces, and masculine appeal the reference is known for. Two strong and crisp hallmarks, one at the outer, lower edge of the lug and the second on the side of the case are perfectly defined giving further evidence to its remarkable condition. Likewise, the silver dial shows no signs of ever having been restored, with only minor aging evident, and all of the raised, hard enamel printing for the signature, sub-dials and scales remains full and intact.
An additional layer of interest is given by the fact that this specimen features an Italian calendar - perfectly matching the dial without "miles" indication which implies the original sale market of this piece was not in an Anglo-Saxon country. Research indicates only eight examples of the 1518 in pink gold are known with an Italian calendar.
Purchased by the consignor, an important European collector, in 2000, it returns to the market 24 years later in the identical state of preservation as when it first appeared. Since then, he fitted a lovely period correct, “chicco di riso”, or “grains of rice” bracelet in 18 karat rose gold, also included with the present lot. This revolutionary model is a must-have for any serious collector of vintage Patek Philippe watches, ticking all the boxes that collectors seek in a legendary vintage watch.
