Patek Philippe

Patek Philippe introduced their first model featuring the legendary caliber 12'''600 AT self-winding movement, in 1953. The reference 2526 would become an international success and can be found in all precious metals with or without bracelets, and in various dial configurations. The present lot is cased in yellow gold and fitted with a white enamel dial.

Enamel dials are, to this day, used sparingly because it is delicate, costly, and difficult to produce –however, Patek chose to use enamel on the reference 2526 for a different reason; it was meant to last forever since enamel dials are not susceptible to the oxidation and moisture damage that can harm the finish of metal dials. Additionally, the dial on the present lot is known as a first series dial, which is distinguishable by the small dimples in the enamel surface that can be seen underneath the top and bottom of each baton hour marker. These early dials have these dimples since the hour markers are actually set into the dial themselves using pins while all later dials have hour markers glued to the solid enamel surface.

This present example, sold in 1956 by the renowned Swiss retailer Gübelin, is presented with its original Gübelin-stamped Patek Philippe certificate and Gübelin presentation box. Additionally, the watch is accompanied by an Extract from the Archives from both Patek Philippe and Gübelin. Notably, a letter to Mrs. Cushing from the Gübelin brothers, pertaining to the insured shipping of the watch ordered from Gübelin to an undisclosed destination, adds a poignant historical context to this exceptional timepiece.