Previously Unknown Patek Philippe Wristwatch at Christies auction in Geneva

In the official announcement by the fine arts auction house, the sale of some 130 watches by Patek Philippe is going to be offered. The visitors will be able to see and bid for no less than 26 vintage complicated wristwatches, about 60 watches by Rolex, and a whole array of contemporary fine-watchmaking creations. The central piece of the auction is recently discovered and previously unknown Patek Philippe watch, reference 3448. The worth of this watch is estimated at amazing CH 500,000-1,000,000!

Manufactured in 1968, the watch is an 18-carat pink gold automatic perpetual calendar with moon phases, original certificate and box. The watch has a Patek Philippe Certificate of Origin with F.J. Freccero, 25 Mayo 563, Montevideo seal. It was sold by Freccero on 15 February 1968, and it was discovered in spring 2011, making the most significant discovery to the world of timepiece collecting.




For many years there have been certain speculations about the existence of only two references 3448 in pink gold cases. According to the rumors, these watches were created by special request for a South American client. The myth is now partially confirmed, but the fate and the whereabouts of the other watch are still remaining unknown.

This watch is exclusive on many levels. Ref. 3448 was the first self-winding perpetual calendar wristwatch, mostly manufactured in yellow gold. A total of 586 pieces were made of which two examples in platinum, a couple in white gold, and a pair of watches in pink gold. One of these pink gold creations is now waiting for a new owner. The watch is powered by legendary calibre 27-460, it boasts a hard enamel printing on the dial and a rare "PP" crown. Another exclusivity is the retailer's signature Freccero on the dial and on the original certificate, as well as the protective burgundy cover on the gold rim of the rotor.

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Over 100 lots from Christie's Geneva November auction of important watches will be offered without reserve, including fine examples by Rolex, Patek Philippe, Cartier, IWC and Panerai.

IMPORTANT WATCHES
Four Seasons Hotel des Bergues
33 quai des Bergues - Geneva

VIEWINGS IN GENEVA
Friday, 11 November, 10am-6pm
Saturday, 12 November, 10am-6pm
Sunday 13 November 10am-7pm
AUCTION
Monday, 14 November, 9.30am & 2.30pm

More about the watch
Author: Marina Milojević
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