296 Patek Philippe Possibly Unique Configuration, First Time at Auction and Highly Attractive, Perpetual Calendar, Moon Phase, Sweep Center Seconds Wristwatch in Pink Gold, Reference 2438, Unique Configuration of Silver Dial with Oversized Arabic Numerals, Original Box

Estimate: €500,000 –⁠ 1,000,000

Model: Perpetual Calendar Moon Phase
Reference: 2438/1
Case Material: Pink Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1955
Movement: Manual
Caliber: 27SCQ
Case N°: 687977
Movement N°: 888112
Dimensions: 37 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
Accessories: Box, Double Pochette, Extract from the Archives (2021 & 2024), Letters and Receipts of Patek Philippe Overhaul, First Owner Original Passport ID and Mr. Tortella and Sons "Deep-Study" Documentation

The Patek Philippe reference 2438/1 is a manual wind perpetual calendar moonphase water-resistant wristwatch and the rarest of all perpetual calendar models produced in a series by the brand. It was first introduced in 1951 alongside its non-waterproof sibling reference 2497 and only 60 to 70 cases were ever produced, in yellow or pink gold. The 2438/1 is an extremely noteworthy model because it represents Patek Philippe’s venture in experimenting with mechanical innovations by creating at the time their first waterproof perpetual calendar wristwatch. The historical significance and limited availability of the 2438/1 contribute to its great desirability among vintage watch collectors. A watch that was way ahead of its time. Moreover, the cases of the Patek 2438/1 were supplied by master case maker Wenger, in Geneva, samely as for the references 1518, 2499, and 2497, for which they all bear similar proportions, giving them infinite balance and harmony and making them timeless in design and beauty. As part of Patek Philippe’s portfolio, the 2438/1 contributes to the brand’s legacy of producing some of the most prestigious and sophisticated timepieces in the industry. Overall, the reference 2438/1 holds a special place in the history of luxury watchmaking, blending historical significance with mechanical excellence and classic design. Only about 15 examples were cased in pink gold, of which only 7 have ever surfaced the auction market, with all examples featuring baton indexes on the dial. Monaco Legend Group is truly honoured to present to the world, and for the very first time on the market, the 8th example of Patek Philippe 2438/1 in pink gold! Astonishingly, this present watch is not like the previously seen pink gold specimen but features a yet undiscovered and unique configuration of “Oversize” Arabic numbers dial! A configuration never seen before on any perpetual calendar Patek Philippe. This example in pink gold was manufactured in 1954 and later sold on December 9, 1958. As confirmed by its recent extract from the archives, it was born with this exceptional “Oversize” Arabic numbers dial. The watch bears a case back engraving that, according to our documentation and research, recalls to possibly the very first owner of the watch, a German businessman from Essen. This present example in pink gold was meticulously taken care of and maintained over its lifetime from the factory, accompanied by documentation showing roughly 45 years of single ownership. We are excited to offer the opportunity of becoming the next custodian of this present 1954 unique Patek Philippe 2438/1 in pink gold. This timepiece is destined to a place of utmost prominence in any of the most important vintage watch collections.