Patek Philippe 2497

Ref. 2497A very rare and highly attractive yellow gold wristwatch with moon phases and sweep center seconds

Manufacturer: Patek Philippe Year: 1953 Reference No: 2497 Movement No: 888'048 Case No: 673'783 Model Name: "Secondi al Centro" Material: 18k yellow gold Calibre: Manual, cal. 27SC Q, 18 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: 18k yellow gold, signed PPCo Dimensions: 37mm. Diameter Signed: Case, dial, movement and buckle signed Accessories: The present watch is accompanied by the original Certificate of Origin and an Extract from the Archives confirming date of production in 1953 and its subsequent sale on September 8, 1956. The reference 2497 holds special value to collectors, as it was the brand’s first perpetual calendar wristwatch made in series to feature center seconds. In 1951, reference 2497 was first introduced slightly earlier than its water-resistant equivalent, the reference 2438/1. Due to their balanced symmetry, spectacular curves, and large case sizes, they are considered by many to be one of the most beautiful perpetual calendar wristwatches ever made. Dials of the first series of reference 2497, as seen in the present example, were fitted with Arabic and dot applied gold hour markers, whereas models produced later feature faceted, baton hour markers. This wristwatch features a stunning, satin-finished silvered dial and is fitted with beautiful feuille hands. Scholarship tells us that there were a combined total of only 179 examples made across both references 2497 and 2438/1, with movement numbers spanning from 888.000 to 888.178. The present example with movement number 888.048 indicates that it was one of the earlier example. The case was produced by Wenger, recognizable by the rounded caseback, shorter lugs and larger diameter. The stepped claw-shaped lugs perfectly complement the beautiful concave bezel. All of these curves, edges, and shapes shine through perfectly due to the remarkable state of preservation of its case. The original certificate is still some 60 years after its original purchase quite a miracle given the fragility of the paper. Now coming from a very distinguished collector this example must be considered one of the finest of this legendary reference.