Patek Philippe 404 “World Record Seaplane Flight” in 18K YG Unpolished w/ Extract

This is an incredibly special Patek Philippe reference 404 with a possibly unique dial featuring unusual hard enamel sector-like hour markers in the center of the dial resembling cat whiskers and what is perhaps the most outrageous and cool '7' even seen on a Patek Philippe. In fact, on close inspection, the '7' actually appears to be a modified upside-down '2' as seen in the '12'.

Beyond the spectacular three-tone Art-Deco style dial and the beautiful curved long Patek Philippe & Co. signature on the dial is the engraving on the back commemorating the flight of the French seaplane the "Croix du Sud" from Cherbourg, France to Ziguinchor, Senegal. Lieutenant de vaisseau Henri-Laurent Dalliere, a French aviation legend, presumably purchased or was given this watch upon his return to France. The watch has "Fab. Suisse" on the bottom of the dial indicating it was likely originally designated to be sent to France by Patek Philippe among with a French gold hallmark on the case.

This case is 18k yellow gold and measures approximately 20mm x 35mm in diameter. The rectangular dial features a subsidiary seconds at 6 o’clock and applied numerals at the 11, 12, 1, 5 and 7 o’ clock positions. It comes with an 18 yellow gold signed Patek Philippe buckle which is later. 

It comes with an extract from the Patek Philippe archives and was originally sold in 1935. This watch does not include the original box and papers, has a manual-wind movement (Caliber 9’’’90 made by Patek Philippe). We do not know the service history, but it is running well

PRICE: $49,000 (Item SBUXTY5488)