Patek Philippe: Radium Dial Burn Marks Vintage Guide
Vintage

Patek Philippe: Radium Dial Burn Marks Vintage Guide

By quattro · Feb 17, 2026 · 19 replies
quattro
WPS member · Patek Philippe forum
19 replies736 views6 photos
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Emmanuel (quattro) presents a fascinating Patek Philippe timepiece from 1911, originally retailed by Tiffany & Co., showcasing a unique form of historical patina. His detailed images highlight radium burn marks on the dial at the 8:13 position, a testament to the watch's long life and the radioactive properties of early luminous materials. This phenomenon offers a tangible link to the watch's past, sparking discussion on the longevity and effects of radium on vintage dials.

The original hands of this Patek Philippe watch, filled with radium, burned a shadow on the dial in position 8:13.

The timepiece was manufactured in 1911 for Tiffany & Co. who sold it in 1925.

Best, Emmanuel













credit: Bachmann & Scher 

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MB
mblum3
Feb 17, 2026

Should be on Prime or Netflix

RD
RDSChicago
Feb 18, 2026

I’m guessing this is the subject of Radium Girls

GL
GLau
Feb 18, 2026

are beautiful in terms of elongation !

QU
quattro
Feb 18, 2026

examples bearing the Chronometro Gondolo mention and the name Patek Philippe. Best, Emmanuel

QU
quattro
Feb 18, 2026

Very pleasing patina indeed. And these radium shadows... Best, Emmanuel

RO
Robert65
Feb 18, 2026

Wonder how long the hands rested in that position for that burn damage to occur? Best, Robert

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