• cal. 12'''600 automatic nickel lever movement stamped with the Geneva seal, 30 jewels, mono-metallic balance, engine-turned 18k gold rotor • off-white enamel dial, applied gold baton indexes, subsidiary seconds • 18k yellow gold case, plastic crystal top, screw-down back • case and movement signed, dial signed by maker and retailer • with an 18k yellow gold Patek Philippe folding buckle

Automatic movement running while cataloguing, however service is recommended for accurate time keeping. It is our opinion that enamel dial has been thinly reglazed; gilt minute dots, GUBELIN printing and subsidiary dial markers possibly have been restored, a gilt minute dot is deficient near 3 o'clock; minor scratches and discoloration to the gold indexes, minor glue residue by the 6 o'clock index. Minor hairline scratches and surface scuffs to the bezel, band and lugs. Light signs of polishing, possible been polished by the maker. Buckle is a newer version of Patek Philippe folding buckle, light signs of use. **The strap of this wristwatch is made from an endangered species, please refer to 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."

With a Patek Philippe Extract of the Archives confirming production with enamel dial and laped gold indexes in 1955 and subsiquent sale on January 24, 1956, and a presentation box with outer packaging.

The Ref. 2526, first manufactured in 1953, was the first self-winding wristwatch made by Patek Philippe, with its production ceased in 1960.  It has become an iconic piece among collectors in today's market due to the cl🎀assic and handsome appearܫance of the enamel dial.

The enamel dial of the present example is set with baton numerals, it required professional craftsmanship and precision to align the baton index 'feet' from the center and inserted post-enameling.  The first 500 movements of calibre 12'''600, such as the present watch, were fitted with the earliest version of this legendary ébauche without ball bearing, rendering✤ these watches particularly rare and 💫collectable.

Examples of Ref. 2526 are illustrated in Huber, M. & Banbery, A., Patek Philippe Wristwatches, pp. 213 and 216-7. Cal. 12-600 is illustrated on p. 214ꦅ of the same text.