Miranda
[PuristSPro Moderator]
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Patek Philippe Chronographs (without complications) Part 1
One of the most popular complications in horology is the chronograph, and Patek Philippe chronographs are some of the most sought after in the collector’s world. Every year records are broken at auction, and the lust for them is insatiable.
Whilst Patek Philippe is famed for its calendar complications, minute repeaters and tourbillons its contribution to the development of the chronograph is often overlooked. Patek Philippe has been producing exceptional wrist chronographs since the dawn of the wristwatch. In 1902 Patek Philippe applied for the first ever patent for a split second’s chronograph.
The first chronographs manufactured in the 1920’s were made in tonneau and round Officers style cases. The oldest surviving chronograph dates to 1924 and is a round cased chronograph with an Officer case style hinged back. According to Patek Philippe, this was one of a series of three pieces made in yellow gold. It was monopusher with a 30 minute register and running seconds.
Another beautiful example is this 1928, case no. 292’634. Also featuring a round case with hinged back and wire lugs. The monopusher movement features the calibre 13” with 25 jewels from Victorin Piguet. It was made in just 27 examples.
Also from 1928 is this incredible unique cushion cased chronograph, no. 608’751. Also housing the cal.13” movement. The case gives inspiration to the modern versions 5950A-001.
It was in the latter half of the 1920’s we saw the debut of the ref.130. This famous reference has seen many variations, but the early models from the 20’s featured a single button chronograph. These first models all housed the 13” ebauche. The case style became synonymous with the ref.130 style. These early chronographs are highly desired, especially in steel like this 35mm case no.504’146. The dial featured black enamelled hour markers as well as a pulsation scale. This particular piece was made in 1927, but sold on the 24 March 1937.
Another beautiful example is this example from 1929, also 35mm, in 18kt yellow gold, it features a delightful sector dial with hard black enamel Arabic markers. It also has a hinged back. Again it houses the esteemed cal.13” movement.
In part 2 we explore the first series produced chronographs.
Picture credits:
Phillips auction
Christie’s auction
Sotheby’s acution
Patek Philippe Chronographs (without complications) Part 1
One of the most popular complications in horology is the chronograph, and Patek Philippe chronographs are some of the most sought after in the collector’s world. Every year records are broken at auction, and the lust for them is insatiable. Whilst Patek P...
For me, my favourite is the 5959
an ultra thin movement in a 33.2mm case - Patek at its best! ...
My favourite too
Tried one on in Geneva. It was amazing - compact and had wrist presence
I have no idea Nico :-)
I thought the article was on Patek chronographs (without complications) and not just vintage Patek chronographs but as usual, I may be wrong
For me, Patek's forte
is its ability to squeeze complicated movements into ultra slim and tiny cases which many others fail to do. That itself is quite an accomplishment.
Fantastic post!
I’m a huge chronograph admirer and collector, look forward to reading the next post.
Very enjoyable post thank you!
On this subject, I have always wondered why Patek put polished caps on their column wheel? Is it simply for protection? And if so, why don't the other manufacturers see the need to do it?
Excellent post my friend
Size of chronographs has changed considerably. Some pure jewels in this post from bygone eras. Cheers D
Of all watch genre
I think I like the pure Chrono most. The Patek Philippe heritage is fabulous
though....
......adding complications is always wonderful, i still say the base complication of Chrono is the tickbox
