108 Patek Philippe Elegant and Absolutely Fascinating Water-Resistant Square Wristwatch in Steel, Reference 1485, Silver Subsidiary Seconds Dial, Unusual Lugs and Sliding Sides
Estimate: €12,000 – 24,000
Material: Stainless Steel
Reference N°: 1485
Year: 1945
Case N°: 653666
Caliber: 10–110
Movement type: Manual
Movement N°: 912175
Bracelet: Leather Strap
Dimensions: 26x26mm
Signed: Dial, case and movement
Accessories: Extract from the archives
With Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in steel in 1945 and its subsequent sale on 26 January 1946.
The reference 1485 offered here represents one of the most intriguing creations ever produced by Patek Philippe. Officially launched in 1940, this model clashes with the principles that have always founded Patek’s thought of using noble materials such as platinum, yellow, white or pink gold. According to archive researches, it appears that the reference 1485 was produced solely in stainless steel. The use of steel was also very atypical because in the years of its introduction on the market the crisis that had reigned throughout the world had already been largely absorbed and well-being was spreading all over the globe. This detail therefore makes the present wristwatch a piece of absolute value and very desirable for collectors. The case is extremely well preserved is striking for its particular form: square, 27 mm for each side, with “Vendôme” type cylindrical lugs, had been designed with the sliding bars of steel in an attempt to make it water-resistant. This special case was manufactured by Taubert, one of the greatest in manufacturing the steel and supplier of cases for many Patek Philippe’s watches till 1965 (among its production have to mentioned some of the most appreciated references such as 96, 565, 14 632 438 and 2508). The dial of the present lot is gorgeous with its argentè color in good conditions, applied baton and roman numerals, long Patek Philippe & Co – Geneva signature, closed outer minutes track and subsidiary seconds at 6 o’clock. Equipped with the caliber 10–200, this reference 1485 is a remarkable and definitely unusual object coming from a past age and a great piece for an high-value and high-quality collection.