I don’t write about pocket watches often. For the most part they are too old fashioned for my taste – even if three piece suits are making a comeback.
But when a pocket watch comes up for sale that is modern, clean and futuristic and designed by Gerlach (who also designed the 2552* and 3448) I do pay attention. Especially when it is made by Patek and has a minute repeating function and perpetual calendar.
Gerlach’s signature clean style has been applied to this pocket watch. The case is modern and futuristic looking. As is the dial. Most astounding is the one window aperture displaying day, month and date – I have never seen this in a pocket watch before. The one window aperture displaying all information on one single line adds to the clean lines of this pocket watch which still looks modern today.
The resemblance to the 3448 is striking – for me one of the greatest watches Patek Philippe ever made. Gerlach designed this watch too.
(Credit: Christies)
The pocket watch Sotheby’s is selling sat unsold for 16 years before selling in 1989 (which was Pateks 150 anniversary).
The watch was made in 1973, the same time during which the iconic 3448 was being made. The heart of this pocket watch is of course the perpetual calendar which is nicely seen in the picture below.
Another complication this watch offers is the minute repeater – which is even a greater complication than the perpetual calendar.
You can see the hammers to the left side of the watch which create the nice sound, the case of white gold helping for sound vibration. Also notice the tooth winding system where it is signed Patek Philippe above.
The estimate of this watch is a hefty CHF 280-380’ooo. Right now it is estimated that only two such pocket watches were ever built – this might explain the very high estimate. For more information on this watch please see Sotheby’s full lot description here.
For the owner of a 3448 Patek this watch could be a very cool addition to the collection. They fit just perfectly together.
(Credit all images: Sothebys. *Credit: Corrado M – Only Vintage)
