Lot #5281
Patek Philippe Chronograph 1463 “Tasti Tondi” 18K YG with Extract from the Archive
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Introduction
The ref. 1463 occupies an important position in Patek Philippe's chronograph history. Introduced during the 1940s, it was the manufacture's first serially produced chronograph housed in a water-resistant case, distinguished from the more traditional snap-back chronographs of the period by its screw-down case back and distinctive round chronograph pushers, the feature responsible for its enduring Italian nickname, “Tasti Tondi”. At approximately 36mm, its comparatively substantial proportions, stepped bezel and robust case construction give the 1463 a noticeably sportier character than many contemporary Patek Philippe chronographs.
This 18K yellow gold example was produced in 1957 and sold in September 1959, as confirmed by its Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives. Its argenté dial combines applied yellow gold markers, feuille hands and an outer tachymeter scale, while the case was made by Taubert & Fils, then-owners of François Borgel and specialists in water-resistant case construction, identified by the FB/11 key signature. Adding another dimension is the presentation engraving to J. M. Bowen for loyal service to The Marble Cliff Quarries Company. Rather than anonymous provenance, this is a ref. 1463 that survives with a tangible connection to its original purpose and recipient.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Extract from the Archives
Est. value range
$150,000 – $250,000
The Details
Brand
Patek Philippe
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Chronograph “Tasti Tondi”
Movement
Manual-wind Patek Philippe calibre 13''' chronograph
Reference
1463
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
1957
Condition
Excellent
Material
18K Yellow Gold
Included
Extract from the Archives
Dial Color
Argenté
THE DIAL
The original argenté dial is classically balanced, with applied yellow gold hour markers and matching feuille hands set against crisp black printing. An outer tachymeter scale frames the dial, while the twin-register chronograph layout maintains the restrained symmetry characteristic of Patek Philippe's mid-century chronographs.
THE CONSTRUCTION
The 36mm 18K yellow gold case combines a screw-down back with the distinctive rounded chronograph pushers that inspired the “Tasti Tondi” nickname. It was manufactured by Taubert & Fils, successors to François Borgel, whose FB/key signature appears inside the case back. The exterior is engraved to J. M. Bowen for loyal service to The Marble Cliff Quarries Company.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in overall excellent condition. The 18K yellow gold case shows some small marks and nicks, particularly visible along the bezel, as expected of a watch of this vintage. The case back bears a personal engraving with light rubbing. The winding crown shows light surface marks, while the round chronograph pushers show gentle wear around the edges. A legible hallmark remains on the non-crown side of the case. The dial is in near-mint condition. There is minor oxidation along some of the index edges. The dial has strong raised enameling throughout, and features a two-tone finish with a darker track ring. The hands remain clean. It is fitted with a leather strap and 18K yellow gold Patek Philippe pin buckle showing light surface scratches. Comes with a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives.
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.
Our Perspective
The 1463 combines several qualities that make vintage Patek Philippe compelling: an important chronograph movement, purposeful water-resistant construction and one of the manufacture's most recognisable mid-century case designs. This example adds documented 1950s production, its Taubert-made yellow gold case and unusually evocative corporate presentation engraving. Rather than detracting from the watch, that engraving preserves part of its history as a record of exactly how an exceptional Patek Philippe could enter someone's life in the 1950s.
John Reardon
Collectability.com
