188 Patek Philippe Very Rare and Fine Open Face Pocketwatch in Pink Gold, Reference 600/1, With Ruby-Set Enamel Dial Depicting the Portrait of King Saud bin Abdul Aziz
Estimate: €25,000 – 50,000
Sold (Premium)€32,500
Model: Pocket Watch
Material: Pink Gold
Reference N°: 600/1
Year: 1954
Case N°: 689419
Caliber: 17–170
Movement type: Manual
Movement N°: 931207
Dimensions: 44.5 mm
Signed: Case and movement
Accessories: Extract from the archives
The reference 600 was officially launched in 1933 and remained in production until 1969: although it is a time-only watch, it still represents one of the most desired modern style pocket watches ever produced. Made with all the 4 noble materials, this Patek Philippe 600 can be considered an absolute chimera for some of its characteristics that is difficult to find on other similar models. The number of production of these objects is really low and even lower is the number of pieces that has passed through the auction market: for this reason the lot offered here is a really rare chance and opportunity to purchase an unusual example of high craftsmanship. The present watch is part of a small series of 200 openface dress watches made as of 1953 to special order for the household of King Saud bin Abdul Aziz, in commemoration of his accession to the throne the same year, after his father and country’s first King Abdul Aziz al Saud passed away. For this series has been used the reference 600/1 especially realized with enamel dial, while the reference 600 had a standard metal dial: it is interesting to notice that these two reference despite being almost identical had a different diameter (5.8 mm the first one and 4.8 mm the second one). This watch distinguishes itself for its very good overall conditions and the beauty of the ivory-coloured enamel dials with ruby-set numerals. The King’s portrait has been executed with the complex technique of the Grand Feu or Big Fire and the result is simply perfect. These creations were given as gifts to dignitaries or friends of His Majesty and nowadays are extremely rare find.
With Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch with the Portrait of the King of Saudi Arabia in 1956 and its subsequent sale on 31 January 1956.