When first released, the ref. 2526 was aggressively marketed and sold through retailers around the world. Originally retailing for $500 USD in yellow gold, the reference was an instant success thanks to its distinctive design and technical innovations. According to a period Patek Philippe advertisement, “In this model, attention has been focused on obtaining a thinner watch – without forfeiting any of the protective qualities… A different case and dial construction has accomplished this, and the result is very gratifying.”
While the ref. 2526 was produced most commonly in yellow gold (approximately 2400 examples), the platinum version is among the rarest and most desirable case metals, with scholarship generally citing approximately 70 examples made in platinum and fewer than two dozen known to still exist today. In the mid-1950s, a platinum ref. 2526P originally retailed for $1,200 USD, more than double the price of its more common yellow gold counterpart. The ref. 2526 was available with numerous dial options, including metal, diamond-set, black, and special-order variants, but it is most closely associated with its beautiful white enamel dial, as seen on many of the most celebrated examples and on the present platinum example. These enamel dials are highly sensitive to shock and can crack easily, making well-preserved original dials especially sought after by collectors. Although this dial shows slight imperfections under magnification, it is an example meant to be worn and enjoyed and presents near perfection with the naked eye. With its platinum case, enamel dial, and superb caliber 12-600 AT movement, the ref. 2526 in platinum stands as one of the ultimate expressions of this landmark reference. For the collector today who values rarity, elegance, and wearability, this is the watch for you.
