Patek Philippe "Tank" - Breguet Numerals (1930s) - Very Rare/*Unpolished*

Year/era: 1937

Reference: 452

Serial: 83XXXX

Dimensions: 21.5mm wide, 37mm lug to lug, 16mm lug width, 7mm tall.

Movement: Manual winding Patek Philippe caliber.

Patek Philippe's story is one of unyielding pursuit of perfection. Since its founding in 1839, the Swiss watchmaker has stood at the summit of horology, crafting timepieces that blend art and engineering in equal measure. Unlike many brands defined by a single model, Patek Philippe's identity rests on its legacy of uncompromising quality and craftsmanship. While icons like the Nautilus, Calatrava, and their perpetual calendars command the most attention today, the brand's catalog also hides a trove of lesser-known masterpieces waiting to be rediscovered.

One such remarkable find is this rectangular "tank" style dress watch, circa 1930s. It is likely what helped inspire the later "Gondolo" model line and embodies horology of the Art Deco period. This piece was sourced through a friend of CCNY who purchased it directly from the original family who had it since new. The caseback shows two generations of the "Quarrier" name engraved in both '39 and '72. Mr. Quarrier served as a lieutenant in the U.S. Army in Korea for two years and worked in Detroit in sales and advertising at General Motors. Notably, it features a stunning Breguet numeral dial. Any "true vintage" Patek will have a special aura to it that can't be replicated in later iterations and the addition of these numerals takes it to another level of beauty and rarity. This example has a very nicely preserved dial with minimal distracting wear. It has been lightly cleaned in the past but PP dials were designed to be and such is the case for the vast majority of pieces in this period. The case is remarkably sharp and appears unpolished with a crisp hallmark and finishing still present. For any collector who appreciates a timepiece with a story, this piece is a great opportunity to for your collection. An archive extract is included. It confirms the Breguet dial and a production date of 1937.

Dial: Very well preserved with strong minute track and sub-seconds register. The raised enamel signature is still distinct with some cleaning visible on the "&" and accent over "e" in "Genève." There is a touch of wear in the lower right portion but it is thankfully not distracting. Note that the upper left and lower right edges of the dial show screws to secure it and are not damage. Overall, it remains in great condition for this era.

Hands: Are matching and nicely preserved. The are the correct gold 'feuille' set we've seen in other similar examples.

Case: Remarkable preservation considering its age. It appears unpolished with its correct brushing still intact. The hallmark on the side is extremely crisp. Edges remain very distinct and the unsigned crown appears correct.

Crystal: There is a small chip on the lower part of the outer edge. It is not distracting and otherwise clear.

Bracelet: Original 18k white gold PP buckle, 18k PP spring bars and vintage gator strap.

Accessories: Archive extract and also included are inner and outer boxes from Virgina retailer Chas.N.Hancher company. It is believed these have been with the watch for most, if not all of its life.

The movement is running well on our timegrapher and comes with our 6-month mechanical warranty.

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