• cal. 9-90 octagonal nickel lever movement, 18 jewels • silvered dial, applied white gold bullet indexes, subsidiary seconds • unusual rectangular case, flared sides and ends, chamfered lugs, curved snap back • case, dial and movement signed

A highly rare and unusual example. The movement is running, however it may require service soon. The dial has aged and bears light marks and spots throughout, however the signature is fully intact and the dial appears to have never been cleaned or refinished. The case shows some light to moderate wear, with some light scuffs and small dings, particularly on the edges. The edges, however, are very sharp throughout and the definition to the case shape is very well preserved. The outside of the case back is clearly marked platinum and there is a strong hallmark between the lugs. The width is 22 mm. The strap of this watch contains endangered species; please see Important Notices for further information.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping.

Important Notice regarding importation into the United States of Rolex watches
Sotheby's cannot arrange for the delivery of Rolex watches to the United States because U.S. laws restricts the import of Rolex watches. The buyer or a designated agent may collect the property in the country of sale."

Accompanied by an Extract from the Archives confirming sale on December 8th, 1950.

According to our research, the present example is the only example of Ref. 2456 to be offered at auction in platinum featuring applied baton indexes and subsidiary seconds to the dial. Furthermore, it is one of approximately five known examples of Ref. 2456 in platinum.

The present model is distinguished by its stunning shape, which is flared horizontally and in its profile. The case was made by Baumgartner, one of Geneva's greatest case makers who was best known for the Ref. 2526. It is interesting to note that such a complex angular design would come from the workshop of a case maker not necessarily known for rectangular patterns.

An example of Ref. 2456 with the more common diamond-set dial is illustrated in Huber, M. & Banbery, A., Patek Philippe Wristwatches, Second Edition, p. 137.