Patek Philippe Reference 600

The Patek Philippe reference 600 is one of the most beautiful time-only pocket watches from the manufacturer and has became my favorite reference from the brand. Introduced in 1933, the reference 600 began a legacy which lasted over three decades becoming one of the most iconic Patek Philippe pocket watches. It is important to note the context of 1933, as at this point Patek Philippe had pivoted towards producing more wristwatches than pocket watches (a decision that served to keep their manufacturer afloat under the new Stern leadership). My personal preference for the 600 is the above dial variant with with applied “Heures Lapidées” hour markers, as the large dial and dauphine hands make for one of the most distinguished designs. Alongside the drilled minute markers, this is a highly legible pocket watch with a sizable diameter of 43.5mm. The bow would be a dramatic transition from the more common “Bassine” and “Murat” style pocket watches and serve to be a much more modern design over into the 1950s and 60s.

The present example features an unpolished 18K gold case with beautiful patina developing on the surfaces. The case back features the initials H.C.C. of the original owner. This Patek Philippe reference 600 is a spectacular and early version of the reference. It is 43.5mm in diameter. The Poinçon de Maître (case maker’s hallmark) bears the number 9 for Emile Vichet. There are also reference 600s with cases produced by Eggly & Cie which are much less common.

The watch is powered by the calibre 17-140 and features the HOX import code indicating it was sold in the United States and an 18K stamped on the case back, also showing it was destined for the US market. According to the Patek Philippe catalog from April of 1955, a reference 600 in yellow gold such as this example would cost CHF 1,425.

The watch does not include box and papers. It comes with an Extract from the Archives of Patek Philippe

SOLD (Item A0065)