Famed for their intensely luxurious eye for detail and unparalleled heritage within the watchmaking industry, Patek Philippe has long been at the top of the horology pyramid. While their modern plaudits come from their infamously desirable wristwatches, the brand began life creating pocket watches, much like other watchmakers that began life during the 19th century and before. As such, it is pocket watches, like the example we have here, that drew attention to Patek Philippe’s original legendary aesthetic and unwavering level of craftsmanship. Featuring an 18kt yellow gold construction, a beautiful silver dial with gold applied Arabic numerals and oversized feuille hands, and an engraved caseback within which its wonderfully finished manual-movement is hidden, this 1939 pocket watch is a stunning example of why Patek Philippe has been widely regarded as one of horology’s best watchmakers for centuries now - a reputation that they certainly have earned and will not lose any time soon. Offered as a watch that was once property of the Peruvian politician Carlos Alvarez who was an important Peruvian politician and magistrate with government positions such as constituent deputy from 1931 to 1936, Minister of Justice, Culture and Education in 1932, deputy for Chancay from 1939 to 1945 and president of its chamber in four legislative periods (1939-1940 and 1943-1944), and member and president of the Supreme Court of Justice from 1957 to 1958, this timepiece holds a special place within the history of Peru. Marking its lineage, this example’s caseback is engraved “LOS DIPUTADOS DEL PERÚ A SU PRESIDENTE EL SR. DR. DON CARLOS SAYÁN ALVAREZ 1939-1941” which translates to “THE DEPUTIES OF PERU TO ITS SR. Dr. DON CARLOS SAYÁN ALVAREZ 1939-1941”.

The watch is in overall excellent condition. The yellow gold case is well defined, with some light scuffs and scratches visible. The dial shows some light marks and oxidation on the applied Arabic hour markers, while the hands remain very clean. It is accompanied by a Patek Philippe Archive Extract.

The ref. 600 was one of the most popular pocket watch models of Patek Philippe’s 20th century production. Made from the early 1930s until circa 1969, the reference evolved through many different variations and styles. The high quality 17 ligne caliber features the Geneva Seal (twice stamped).