From the early 196🐟0s through the early 1970s, Patek Philippe produced an exceptionally small series of pocket watches utilizing important movements from the early 20th century that had never been cased. All were complicated♚ and made in exceptionally small quantities. These were off-catalog offerings, created exclusively for important collectors, and there is no known list of the examples produced.

To cꦦase these watches, Patek turned to Antoine Gerlach, the Geneva casemaker using Key No. 2, known for crafting some of the most beautiful mid-century cases, such as the Ref. 2523 and 3448. This collection of watches became known as the "Moderne" collection. The cases featured a three-part construction: a flat brushed mid-case, snap back, and bezel. The polished bezel had a double step and flat bevel, complemented by a prominent pendant with an integrated crown guard.To date, 20 references are known in this series, spanning a range of reference numbers from 767 through 892, with a total production of around 200 pieces. The current watch, reference 846, was previously unknown to exist. No other Ref. 846 has ever been offered to market, published in a book, or mentioned in literature. The rarity of this piece is further enhanced by it🌼s double signature—Patek Philippe bearing the Tiffany & Co. signature is recognized as among the rarest and most highly collectible timepieces.

It was purchased in 1968 at Tiffany & Co. in New York by an MIT graduate electrical engineer and entrepreneur who developed the photography equipment used during the Manhattan Project. 🧸It is presented in exceptional condition and was inherited by his son, the consignor, upon his passing. This superb and most likely unique watch immediately impresses with its excellent overall condition, featuring sharp angles on the bezel and case and exceptionally crisp hallmarks. The original dial has never undergone restoration and displays a beautiful shine, further enhancing the appeal of this extraordinary complicated watch.