Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronograph 1518

Ref. 1518A highly rare and attractive yellow gold perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch with moonphases

Manufacturer: Patek Philippe Year: 1944 Reference No: 1518 Movement No: 863'522 Case No: 637'178 Material: 18K yellow gold Calibre: Manual, cal. 13-130 Q, 23 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Alligator Clasp/Buckle: 18K yellow gold Patek Philippe buckle stamped PPCo Dimensions: 35mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed Accessories: Accompanied by Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1944 with silvered dial, raised gold hour markers and tachometer scale and its subsequent sale on July 28, 1945. Furthermore accompanied by presentation box.Appearing on the auction market for the very first time, this timepiece wonderfully exemplifies the characteristics of the iconic reference 1518. Preserved in excellent and remarkable condition, it is an early first series example. Most notably, this dial is stamped with a long signature displaying "Patek, Philippe & Co". The dial is preserved in impressive condition as it has gracefully aged over time. Reference 1518 dials are notorious for tarnishing heavily due to the model's snap-on bezel and caseback, which allowed moisture to seep through. However, this particular dial has aged to a warm ivory tone and has incredible charisma. The enamel signature remains thick and defined, with the accent above the "e" in "Genève" strong and present, as is the comma between "Patek" and "Philippe". The hard enamel graphics on the dial remain preserved and raised wonderfully. Boasting two hallmarks, the case retains its original proportions. While one hallmark is stamped under the lug, another is still visible on the side of the case. It even retains its vintage Patek Philippe buckle stamped "PPCo". A historically important model, reference 1518 was the first perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch ever produced in series when it was introduced in 1941. According to research, only 281 examples were manufactured until the reference ceased production in 1954. It paved the way for successors references 2499, 3970, 5970 and finally, 5270, which features an in-house movement.