Large and Very Attractive Chronograph Wristwatch in Pink Gold, Reference 530, Breguet Numbers and Tachymetric Scale Dial
Model: Calatrava
Material: Pink Gold
Reference N°: 530
Year: 1949
Case N°: 511611
Caliber: 13″
Movement type: Manual
Movement N°: 867646
Bracelet: Leather Strap
Dimensions: 36.5 mm
Signed: Dial, case and movement
Accessories: Extract from the archives
Very few references produced by Patek Philippe are capable to make the heart of every single vintage watch lover beat faster. Among these creations can be listed the 530 chronograph. Elder brother, in terms of the size, of the reference 130, the 530 has the classic Calatrava style and with its circa 37mm diameter, considerably increases its presence on a male wrist. Its production began in 1937 and remained in Patek’s catalogs for about 20 years. During this time various materials have been explored, starting from yellow gold (the most common alloy used) up to the rare stainless steel and rose gold for a total of only 140 specimens. It is also curious to note that the models in steel and yellow gold existed with two different bracelet/leather widths between the lugs: 19mm or, for the cases made by Georges Croisier, 21.5mm wide. Still today one of the rarest and largest vintage chronograph models manufactured by the firm, the 530 is certainly one of the most exclusive and it becomes even more so when found with special features such as the lot offered here. It is indeed one of the very limited examples realized in 18k pink gol and has been preserved in an incredible way: at a first glance it is possible to understand that this 530 has spent most of its life in a safe box and has consequently seen very little wear over the last years. The proportions of the case are well defined and the hallmark between the winding cron and the pusher at 4 o’clock is incredibly crisp. Moreover, the present pink gold reference 530 is not only extremely rare for material and preservation of the case but mainly because it is one of only very few known models to feature Breguet numerals. Surprisingly the argentè dial has kept its original color and definition of the details. The applied pink gold Breguet numerals are simply extraordinary in all their beauty and a true gem for their rarity. The reference 530 is certainly one of the most exclusive and attractive watches a connoisseur can aspire to own and the present lot can be considered as one of the most important and exciting ever appeared to auction in all these years.
Accompanied by a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in rose gold in 1949 and its subsequent sale on 14 July 1950.
