Launched in 1934 as the first serially-produced chronograph reference, the Patek Philippe Chronograph ref. 130J is the starting point of one of Patek Philippe’s most collectable family trees. Created due to the swell in demand for chronographs in the 1930s and to offer chronographs beyond the very few that Patek would make as piece uniques for VIPs, the ref. 130J combines Patek Philippe’s incredibly classical styling and elegant watchmaking with the functionality of a chronograph in the days when mechanical timepieces were the only answer for those who needed a watch for practical purposes. Enjoying around 30 years of production over which 1500 examples were produced, the ref. 130 is a fan favourite amongst Patek Philippe’s collectors, with its bi-compax off-white dial and svelte 33mm case joining forces to showcase perfect awareness of early classical watchmaking design. Offered here we have a ref. 130J from 1938 as dated by Patek Philippe in their archive extract. Boasting a well-preserved 18kt yellow gold case and dial, this timepiece perfectly encapsulates the reference’s early design.

Watch is in very good overall condition. Case shows moderate signs of wear, with thick and straight lugs that have rounded soft edges. The hallmark on the case at the 9 o'clock side remains clear and intact. The original "Long Signature" dial is in very good condition, with some spotting visible on the surface, and oxidized indexes that appear darker in tone than the hands. Watch comes on a generic strap with an original 18k PP buckle. An Extract of the Archives is included with the watch.

A historical reference that serves as the starting point of one of Patek's most revered collections, the ref. 130 was the first offering from Patek to be given a reference number and the first serially-produced Patek Philippe chronograph. Some might say it was the starting point for modern Patek Philippe, as we know it today.