Breaking News: The Only Known Asprey; Sotheby’s Sells Patek Philippe “Asprey” Ref. 2499 for a Record-Breaking Sum; One of the Most Important Vintage Wristwatches in the World; Sotheby’s to Auction “The Asprey”, a Unique and Historically Significant Timepiece; Two Patek Ref. 2499 Watches Draw More Than $7.1 Million at Auction; Sotheby’s Sells One-of-a-Kind Patek Philippe; Patek Philippe ‘The Asprey’: Sold For A Record-Shattering Price; Sotheby’s Sells The Only Known Asprey-Signed Patek Philippe Ref. 2499; PATEK PHILIPPE; Patek Philippe, Asprey & the Pinnacle of Horological History.
The world of haute horlogerie recently witnessed a seismic event, the sale of a truly singular timepiece: a Patek Philippe reference 2499, bearing the prestigious Asprey signature. This wasn't just any 2499; it was a first-series example, and, astonishingly, the only known specimen to carry the Asprey London hallmark. Its sale at Sotheby's shattered expectations, cementing its place not only as a record-breaker but also as one of the most important vintage wristwatches ever offered at auction. This article delves into the captivating history, the remarkable provenance, and the staggering value of this exceptional piece, forever changing our understanding of Patek Philippe and its relationship with renowned retailers like Asprey.
A Legacy Forged in Time: Understanding the Patek Philippe Reference 2499
Before exploring the unique Asprey-signed example, it's crucial to understand the significance of the Patek Philippe reference 2499 itself. Produced between 1951 and 1985, the ref. 2499 is a landmark chronograph, representing a pinnacle of Patek Philippe's craftsmanship and horological innovation. Its elegant design, combined with its robust and highly accurate movement, made it an instant classic, coveted by collectors and connoisseurs alike. The watch features a sophisticated split-seconds chronograph function, allowing for precise timing of multiple events, and often boasted a beautifully finished movement visible through an exhibition caseback. Different series of the 2499 existed, each with subtle variations in dial design, case shape, and movement construction, making the identification and authentication of individual pieces a complex and fascinating endeavor for experts. The first series watches, like the Asprey example, are particularly sought after for their historical significance and often possess unique characteristics not found in later productions.
The Asprey Connection: A Marriage of Luxury and Legacy
The Asprey name itself resonates with opulence and heritage. Established in 1781, Asprey of London has long been synonymous with luxury goods, renowned for its impeccable craftsmanship and association with royalty and high society. Their partnership with Patek Philippe, therefore, represents a meeting of two titans in the world of luxury, a collaboration that resulted in several exceptional timepieces being sold through their prestigious London store. The presence of the Asprey signature on a Patek Philippe watch, therefore, is not merely a retailer's mark; it's a badge of honor, signifying a watch that passed through the discerning hands of one of the world's most respected purveyors of fine goods. It implies a level of quality control and exclusivity that elevates the watch beyond its already impressive pedigree.
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