Patek Philippe. A rare and attractive 18K gold chronograph wristwatch with tachymeter scale

Not seen on the market for almost twenty years, this very attractive example of the reference 130 impresses by its good overall state of preservation. The reference 130 was the first Patek Philippe chronograph model to be given a reference number. The gold cases were made by Vichet, one of Geneva's best case makers of the time.

The present watch is fitted with a very fine silvered dial with raised gold hour markers, strongly raised enamel signature and scales and delicate surface sheen. The manufacture date of 1938 however, precludes the use of the “short” signature on the dial, this style of signature was only in use from 1948. The undoubtedly fine Patek Philippe dial must therefore have been fitted after 1948, perhaps to replace a damaged dial or for a change of colour at the then owner’s request.