Patek Philippe Chronograph 130
SKU : 7738
Bezel material : 18k rose-gold bezel
Bracelet : Black alligator-leather strap
Caliber : Cal. 13"
Case Material : 18k rose gold case, original Patek Philippe
Clasp : 18k rose-gold buckle, original Patek Philippe
Case Dimensions : 33 mm
Dial : cream dial with raised enamel lettering
Documents : Bernardini provenance
Glass : Plexi crystal
Extracts from the Archive : Yes
Index : 18k rose gold applied markers
Model : Calatrava chronograph
Movement : Manual-winding chronograph
Reference : 130
Year : 1943
A perfect Patek Philippe chronograph in pink gold: this 80 year old ref. 130 is both rare & coveted and above all, remains in exceptional quality.
The second half of the 1930's marks the introduction of this important chronograph reference. Little over 300 are approximately produced in pink gold, 2.5 times less than -the more common- yellow gold variants. These Calatrava-style cases were supplied by Vichet; one of the most prominent case makers in history. It comes in at 33mm but wears exceptionally large for its diameter, due to the elongated and slim lugs, with a -relatively unusual- width of 20mm. The three part case sports a concave bezel and snapback caseback. Most notably is the condition, as it appears to be pristine, retaining its attractive proportions. The clearly visible and deep hallmarks attest the crisp state.
The argenté dial has a lot of personality. Firstly we acknowledge the raised enamel lettering, including the "long signature". This lay-out brings exceptional aesthetic pleasure due to its balance. Executed by Stern Freres, it features elegantly sunken subdials at 3 and 9, and applied numerals at the top and bottom of the dial. In between sit "bullit" indices, complimenting the Feuille hands. After all these years the dials remain very appealing, to put it mildly. You will be hard pressed to find any chronograph, from this period, with a fresher allure. There is very slight discolouring between the 7 and 8 o'clock mark, only visible in certain lighting. The surface is otherwise flawless and the printing remains complete and full.
This collectors items was produced in 1943 and found its first enjoyer in January 1945. It resided a while in the collection of Marc Bitzer, CEO of Whirlpool and aficionado of some of the most refined timepieces from yesteryear. This specimen has never been offered on auction, but passed through the hands of one of the most renowned experts in vintage Patek: Max Bernardini. He supplied a report with it, bearing the same conclusion we made: this wristwatch is breathtaking in all regards. Furthermore it is supplied with the extract of the archive and a gold Patek buckle.
