PATEK PHILIPPE STEEL REF. 130A WITH TACHOMETER

This timepiece is a true grail – a museum-quality masterpiece that would be the crown jewel of any prestigious collection: the Patek Philippe steel ref. 130A. Produced in 1943 and sold in 1945, this exceptional watch features a hand-engraved and raised enamel, two-tone sector dial that has beautifully aged over the decades. It represents the original gentleman’s sports watch from an era when sports were defined by high-speed racing and the excitement of horse races. The push of the chronograph button could determine victory or defeat, symbolizing precision and success.

For the discerning collector who seeks to own a timepiece that transcends time itself, this is the ultimate dream watch – a complex steel wristwatch from the dawn of the golden age of vintage horology.

Sold in the closing months of World War II, one can only imagine the original owner of this watch – which was priced at $425 at the time. To put that in perspective, the average car cost around $1,800 in the early 40s.

A bit of background on the ref. 130: production began in 1934, and the model remained available through the early 1960s. It was regarded as a sports watch of its time, measuring 33.5 mm. The dial options were varied, including Breguet, Roman, Arabic, sector, black, and of course, two-tone variations. This particular example features a long signature, small indices, and small sub dials.

Approximately 280 stainless steel ref. 130s were ever produced. The dial is a true work of art, showcasing the fine, hand-engraving and enameling techniques of the era. The case, crafted by Georges Crosier for Patek Philippe, is flawlessly finished – with a brushed middle case, and a high-polish finish on the bezel, case back, and lugs. The movement is powered by a Valjoux ebauche, rhodiumed-brass with 23 jewels and a mono-metallic amagnetic balance, offering both precision and durability.