Patek Philippe "Tank", Breguet Numerals

Dealer description — Collectors Corner NY

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 Patek Philippe watches 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 for your collection. An archive extract is included. It confirms the Breguet dial and a production date of 1937.