Patek Philippe “1415J” World Time

Description

The Patek Philippe World Time, reference 1415 HU, is a very special watch, produced for a short time from 1939 to 1954, of which only 82 examples are known in yellow gold.  These watches were fitted with large bezels, displaying various cities, allowing the wearer to set the time and subsequently be able to tell the time in said city; the cities displayed would differ depending on the final market destination the watch was sold to, ranging from 28 cities in 1939 and up to 42 cities in the 1950s.  The present example was produced in 1942 and subsequently sold in 1945, according to the Patek Extract from the Archives.

This Patek Philippe World Timer in in good vintage condition.  The case has been previously polished (likely by Patek, as it still has an old Patek service sticker on the outside of the caseback), but retains thick and even lugs, with no change in the shape of the distinct tear-drop lugs and hallmarks still visible on the back of the lugs.  Further, the original dial is well-preserved, showing some marks and wear from normal use/aging, but remaining very attractive overall.  Further, the watch is fitted on an original Patek Philippe rare beads-of-rice gold bracelet, dated later to 1960, but an extremely coveted bracelet in its own right.

A true rarity, these early Patek world timers are adorned by collectors, and do not come to market very often!