189 Patek Philippe Very Rare and Fine, Open Face Pocketwatch, in Yellow Gold, Hand-Painted Enamel Miniature Depicting “The Guitar Player”, Reference 600/1
Estimate: €8,000 – 16,000
Sold (Premium)€31,200
Model: Pocket Watch
Reference: 600/1
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Year: 1940's
Movement: Manual
Caliber: 17“'
Case N°: 649726
Movement N°: 930 666
Dimensions: 44 mm
Signed: Dial, 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 productions 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 reference had many faces and styles and were cased, as said, in an array of metals. The present ref. 600/1 with a lean profile is cased in yellow gold and preserved in very nice conditions. The dial has the classical silvered lay out with applied baton numerals, alpha hands and subsidiary seconds at 6 o’clock. The back is extremely impressive considering the gorgeous and complex decoration with enamel painting depicting the masterpiece by Johannes Vermeer “The Guitar Player”. Without a doubt one of the highest forms of watch decoration, enameling has always been an important craft for timepieces. Extremely impressive, the miniature enamel scene on the case back required various techniques to execute. One of the difficulties in the realization of this miniature is surely the frame with the landscape in the back, full of different colors and in need of minimal care to be able to make such a miniature. Definitely rare and visually appealing, this is a fantastic opportunity for collectors of fine pocket watches and enameled timepieces to acquire an important work of art.