Every storied watchmaker has their handful of offerings that have grown to become rather reverential beings as the ultimate must-haves for that watchmaker’s most feverish collectors. For Patek Philippe, that list of revered references is perhaps longer than most, but one collection of references that are certainly at the top of that iceberg are the three asymmetrical references created by Gilbert Albert (1930 – 2019), who was the head of Patek Philippe’s workshop from 1955 to 1962. Among that trio of references are the ref. 3424, the ref. 3422, and the ref. 3412, which is the most exaggerated of the three, and just so happens to be what we have to offer here as the climax of our Loupe This x Collectability sale. A previously unknown example to the market, this ref. 3412 is the 9th documented example ever presented for public sale.

Made from 18kt yellow gold and boasting an incredibly complex triangular case that is sandwiched atop a lower case piece to create space through which a single piece of leather can pass underneath to act as its strap, the ref. 3412 is the most daring and visually impressive of Gilbert Albert’s iconic asymmetrical designs. Boasting a minimally decorated triangular champagne sector dial, the ref. 3412 builds upon its rather geometric complexity by hinting at its own design through the twelve triangular sections that result from the lines that bisect its central pinion. An incredible opportunity to own a fresh-to-market example of one of Patek’s most desirable vintage offerings, this lot concludes our second collaborative sale with Collectability.

The watch is in overall excellent condition. The yellow gold case shows some surface scratches and a couple of small nicks, as expected for a watch of this vintage. The case back has the correct stamps and hallmarks on the inside and outer edge of back mid-case, all of which are very crisp. The champagne dial is in excellent condition with some light surface aging, and the hands show light wear. The indelible signature on the dial is strong, and the accent in Genéve is well visible. It is fitted with its original one-piece Patek Philippe alligator strap and a yellow gold Patek buckle. The strap shows some wear and fraying along the edges near the buckle holes, and the original floating keep has been damaged but is included with the watch. Another floating keep has currently been fitted on the strap. An extract of the archives has been ordered and will be sent to the winning bidder when received.

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.