• cal. 12-600 nickel lever movement, stamped with the seal of Geneva, 30 jewels, Gyromax balance, 18k yellow gold rotor • white enamel dial, applied yellow gold faceted baton indexes, Dauphine hands, subsidiary seconds, outer dot minute divisions • 18k yellow gold case, solid screw down case back • case, dial, and movement signed

The movement is running at time of cataloguing, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time or duration of the power reserve and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement. Case in overall good vintage condition with oxidation, scuffing and scratches consistent with use and age. Dial with three hairline cracks from the 9 o'clock to 11 o'clock indexes. Movement in excellent condition. Please be advised that the bands on this watch are made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) and thus not sold with the watch, they are for display purposes only. We will remove these bands prior to shipping.
"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."

Accompanied by an Extract from the Archives confirming the year of manufacture in 1956 and date of sale on March 21st, 1957. 

ꦫRef. 2526 launched in 1953 as Patek Philippe's first self-winding wristwatch. Its limited production ceased in 1960. The present lot belongs to the first series, made shortly after the𝕴 launch of the model, with pearled minute divisions and open subsidiary seconds. 

Among colle🔯ctors, the Ref. 2526 is iconic for its signature white enamel dial. Rarely found in modern wristwatches, the enamel dial has a luminous finish and is impervious to moisture and oxidation. Indeed, if cared for properly, an enamel dial can maintain its original appearance indefinitely.

Examples of Ref. 2526 are illustrated in Martin Huber & Alan Banbery, Patek Philippe Wristwatches, p. 213 and p🐻. 216–7﷽. The cal. 12-600 is illustrated on p. 214 of the same book.