Patek Philippe 2497

Ref. 2497A very rare and incredibly well-preserved yellow gold perpetual calendar wristwatch with center seconds, moonphases and bracelet

Manufacturer: Patek Philippe Year: 1954 Reference No: 2497 Movement No: 888'056 Case No: 679'790 Model Name: "Secondi al Centro" Material: 18K yellow gold Calibre: Manual, cal. 27SC Q, 18 jewels Bracelet/Strap: 18K yellow gold Gay Frères expandable bracelet, max length 180mm Clasp/Buckle: 18K yellow gold expandable clasp stamped 2.52 Dimensions: 37mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial and movement signed, bracelet further signed GF Accessories: Accompanied by Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1954 with raised gold indexes and its subsequent sale on June 7, 1955. A truly landmark model, reference 2497 is the first serially produced Patek Philippe perpetual calendar wristwatch to feature centre seconds. First introduced in 1951, it is considered one of manufacture’s most beautiful designs ever made, eliciting pure joy and admiration from its beholder. The elegant curved case, produced first by Vichet and then Wenger, hugs the wrist perfectly. The watch’s overall symmetry is furthermore mesmerizing to the eye, enhanced by its robust presence on the wrist. Reference 2497 is one of Patek Philippe’s rarest serially produced perpetual calendar models. Research shows that a combined 179 examples of reference 2497 and its water resistant sibling 2438/1 were produced during their 12 year production period. The present watch is an exceedingly attractive specimen. Featuring crisp fluting to the lugs and sharp vertical finishes on the side of the lugs, it also displays two hallmarks which are deep and crisp beneath the lugs. Interestingly, there are London hallmarks on the inside caseback and underneath the lugs, that correspond to 1954. This is fitting and correct, as it corresponds with the year of manufacture of the present timepiece. The dial is preserved in beautiful condition, with hard enamel writing. The accent above the "e" in "Genève" is crisp and visible, and there are no losses to the date outer ring.