Dial: silveredCalibre: cal. 17''' mechanical, 29 jewelsMovement number: 861'091Case: 18k yellow gold, snap on backCase number: 317'099Size: 51 mm diameterSigned: case, dial and movement Accessories: Patek Philippe presentation box. Furthermore delivered with Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1977 and its subsequent sale on 7 August 1981

For a similar example of reference 844, please see Patek Philippe Museum, Patek Philippe Watches, Volume 2, page 387.

The movement is in working condition at the time of cataloguing. The minute repeating is in phase and chimes with a nice tone and clarity. The dial is in very attractive condition with a couple of very minor black spots to the centre from aging. The hands with minor tarnishing. The case is very crisp with nice original lines and stamped with crisp hallmarks. There is a nice visible hallmark at the bow. Overall in excellent condition. Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense. Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band. Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.
"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."

The reference 844 has considerable popularity, not only amongst pocket watch collectors but also wristwatch collectors. The case of the reference 844 was made by Gerlach, who was the same case maker as the reference 3448. One can identify the very crisp case lines that are very reminiscent of the perpetual calendar automatic wristwatch. Introduced in 1965 and was available for the next 40 years, it is estimated that there was as little as only 80 pieces made. Purchased at Chronometer Beyer, the present watch is a splendid example of a reference 844, the case is very crisp with very sharp and well defined case lines. The digital or American calendar display have increased the popularity of this reference. The present example is furthermore fresh to the market.