PATEK PHILIPPE YELLOW GOLD REF. 2526J

When first released, the ref. 2526 was aggressively marketed and sold through retailers around the world. Originally retailing for 500 USD, this reference was an instant success due to its unique design and technical innovations. According to a Patek Philippe ad at the time, ‘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.’

The ref. 2526 was available with numerous different dial options, such as black, metal, diamond, and ‘Do Unto Other’, but most commonly features a white enamel dial, as shown on this example. Made by Stern Frères, these dials are considered some of the most desirable time-only watch dials to ever have been made. The enamel dials are very sensitive to shock and crack easily. Only 500 to 600 examples were made during the entire production between 1953 and 1960, meaning very few have survived in mint, unrestored condition. This fresh-to-market example has hairlines around 10 and 11 o’clock, making it the perfect example to experience the pleasure of wearing a well-priced ref. 2526 on your wrist without the pain of knowing you just cracked a dial on a mint example that cost three times as much.

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