85 Patek Philippe Very Rare and Valuable Rectangular-Shape Wristwatch “Marylin” in Yellow Gold, Reference 2442, With Silver Dial and Flared Sides

Estimate: €25,000 –⁠ 50,000

Model: Hour Glass
Material: Yellow Gold
Reference N°: 2442
Year: 1951
Case N°: 671669
Caliber: 9″90
Movement type: Manual
Movement N°: 974196
Bracelet: Leather Strap
Dimensions: 26 mm × 42 mm
Signed: Dial, case and movement
Accessories: Extract from the archives

Between the 1930s and 1950s, the production of Patek Philippe was mainly dedicated to shape watches and especially to a huge variety of rectangular models. Times slowly changed and in the ’50s round watches came to the fore for their fashionable and chic design. ON the opposite side, the production of rectangular watches soon became a rarity and even more so if fitted with a rectangular movement. The reference 2442 was one of those amazing creations with both case and caliber with rectangular shape and the lot offered here is a really nice and fashionable example of it. The reference 2442 model “Hour Glass”, also called by Italian collectors “Marylin”, was introduced into the market in 1948 and could be found in Patek Philippe sales catalogues until circa 1960. Featuring the 9′ 90 caliber, no more than two hundred watches were made in total and even if most of them were made in yellow gold, like the present watch, it turns out to be very rare since only a few specimens of the same material have appeared in public in recent years. Its generous case proportions and fluid lines lend it a seductive presence hardly ever achieved by any other rectangular wristwatch. The present lot immediately strikes the lovers of watches defined ageé by the collectors for its oxidized case in a not homogeneous way but proper for this very fascinating. However, its storage conditions are remarkable considering the over 60 years of life. The silver dial has a decoration with Arabic indexes and applied yellow gold dagger. Their oxidation cannot leave impassive with that coppery color that only some watches are able to reach. Gorgeous, elegant and precious, this sophisticated piece is one of the nicest shape watches ever produced.

Accompanied by a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in yellow gold in 1951 and its subsequent sale on 20 August 1952.