The following two lots, 35 and 36, are fine examples of Patek Philippe's reference 3603, in production from 1973 until 1982 and together with references 3587 and 3597 amongst the largest rectangular wristwatches ever made by Patek Philippe. The Beta-21 calibre was developed by a consortium of watch companies, including Patek Philippe, at the Swiss Electronic Research centre or CEH (Centre Electronique Horloger) in Neuchâtel. It was the first quartz movement for wristwatches with analogue display. For a ref. 3603 and description and illustration of the Beta-21 see Patek Philippe Wristwatches by Martin Huber & Alan Banbery, second edition, pp. 85, 87 & 332.
Patek Philippe. A Rare 18k Gold Rectangular Electronic Wristwatch with Sweep Centre Seconds and date

SIGNED PATEK PHILIPPE, GENÈVE, REF. 3603, MOVEMENT NO. 8'178, CASE NO. 2'732'443, MANUFACTURED IN 1974

Price realised CHF 10,625
Estimate
CHF 5,000 – CHF 7,000
Estimates do not reflect the final hammer price and do not include buyer's premium, and applicable taxes or artist's resale right. Please see Section D of the Conditions of Sale for full details.
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Patek Philippe. A Rare 18k Gold Rectangular Electronic Wristwatch with Sweep Centre Seconds and date

SIGNED PATEK PHILIPPE, GENÈVE, REF. 3603, MOVEMENT NO. 8'178, CASE NO. 2'732'443, MANUFACTURED IN 1974

Price realised CHF 10,625
Closed: 12 May 2014
Price realised CHF 10,625
Closed: 12 May 2014
Details
Patek Philippe. A Rare 18k Gold Rectangular Electronic Wristwatch with Sweep Centre Seconds and date
Signed Patek Philippe, Genève, ref. 3603, movement no. 8'178, case no. 2'732'443, manufactured in 1974
Cal. Beta 21 electroquartz movement, 13 jewels, brushed blue dial, applied gold baton numerals, sweep centre seconds, window for date, rectangular case with raised bezel, hidden lugs, snap on case back, 18K gold Patek Philippe buckle, case, dial and movement signed
33.5 mm. wide and 37.5 mm. overall lenght
Special notice
Prospective purchasers are advised that several countries prohibit the importation of property containing materials from endangered species, including but not limited to coral, ivory and tortoiseshell. Accordingly, prospective purchasers should familiarize themselves with relevant customs regulations prior to bidding if they intend to import this lot into another country.

Lot Essay

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