125 Patek Philippe Extremely Important, Historical and Well Preserved, Open Face Art-Deco Square Pocket Watch, in Platinum, With Diamonds and Emeralds Set Case, Special Ordered in 1928 for King Alexander I of Yugoslavia

Estimate: €40,000 –⁠ 80,000

Model: Pocket Watch
Case Material: Platinum, Diamonds and Emeralds
Year: 1928
Movement: Manual
Caliber: 16
Case N°: 607467
Movement N°: 820956
Dimensions: 40 x 40 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
Accessories: Extract from the Archives

Behind the quintessence of a Patek Philippe watch often lies a unique story of direct collaboration with important clients, imbuing each timepiece with an aura of exclusivity and authenticity. This practice transforms these watches into bespoke works of art. The object of these customization was often pocket watches that, despite their extraordinary craftsmanship and unique design with special shapes, nowadays often do not receive the attention they deserve on the market. These extraordinary pieces represent a perfect blend of watchmaking capability and design creativity, with shapes that defy conventional standards. The watch offered here is certainly a perfect example of this concept, with an absolutely unique case and ornamentation. The platinum case has an unusually square shape, rarely used by Patek in its history for pocket watches, and has been beautifully preserved. On the sides, at 2, 4, 8 and 10 o’clock, a beautiful diamond and emerald decoration is evident, enveloping the entire case and lending it dynamism and luxury. On the back, is present of a coat of arms with a crown, indeed, research shows that the watch was specifically ordered by King Alexander I of Yugoslavia. Born on December 16, 1888, in Cetinje, Montenegro, the king played a pivotal role in the Kingdom of Yugoslavia’s history. Ascending to the throne in 1921, he sought to unify the diverse Yugoslav population. In 1929, he suspended the constitution to counter internal strife and foster national unity, facing opposition. Tragically, he was assassinated on October 9, 1934, during a state visit in Marseille, France. His legacy is marked by his efforts for unity in a complex geopolitical landscape. He died in 1934, which means he received the watch just before he passed. Alexander I was a true lover for watches and in the course of the years some rare pieces with its insignia on the back have appeared at auction, such as a single button chronograph by Vacheron Constantin with white enamel dial made in 1928, sold by Antiquorum the 15th December 1989 for over 270 millions of Italian lire. Historically important, the silver-toned dial of the watch, with its black enamel outer track, is adorned with applied Greek-style numerals, as said on the extract from the archives, and hands with Breguet style. A true work of horological art combining technical mastery and distinctive aesthetics. Unusual designed Patek Philippe pocket watches such as the lot offered here carry a legacy of innovation and unique style, underscoring the fact that true beauty often lies in extraordinariness and originality. Furthermore, the watch comes with the extract from the archives confirming material, precious stones, its manufacture in 1928, the subsequent sale on 29th May 1933 and, most of all, the diamond-set monogram and Royal crown on the back. We are grateful to Mr. Srdjan Stevic for the precious help and researches carried out at the Royal Palace of Serbia.