Patek Philippe Reference 2517

Among the best value buys in vintage Patek Philippe are rectangular models in gold bearing the calibre 9-90. No exception is the 39.5mm x 26mm reference 2517. Produced in two versions, the present example features smooth hooded lugs, as opposed to the “grooved” or “scalloped” version seen below within the 1940s Patek Philippe catalog. This particular example has tremendous provenance by way of a beautifully-preserved case back engraving showing the story of 50 years of “loyal’ and “efficient service” to the Fox Film Corp. by the employee I.J. Schmertz. Mr. Schmertz was the Branch Manager for Fox Film Corporation in Cleveland, Ohio. The interior of the case back features the Poinçon de Maître key numbered 5, which indicates it was made by Georges Croisier, an early steel specialist who Patek enlisted for models such as the steel reference 530 in addition to many of the steel reference 130 cases. The dial features applied-gold hour markers and a hard-enamel “Patek Philippe Genéve” signature. Stamped into the calibre 9-90 movement is the U.S. import code HOX for the Henri Stern Watch Agency, the Patek Philippe agent in New York City.

The watch does not come with box and but does include the Extract from the Archives.

SOLD