This is a superlative example of Patek Philippe’s original Travel Time, the ref. 2597 HS. Fresh to the market, it surfaced in 2021 after remaining for decades with the family of its original owner. Preserved in outstanding condition with its original presentation engraving, the watch retains sharp, full lugs, an untouched bezel, and a case that retains its original presence and proportions.
The dial has applied gold baton indexes have aged with a beautiful, even patina, while the untouched surface retains its original pearling and enamel Patek Philippe signature so prized by collectors. These details, combined with the overall state of preservation, make this a watch for the true connoisseur seeking one of the finest known examples of this important and historically significant reference.
The ref. 2597 HS, with “HS” standing for Heures Sautantes, or “jumping hours,” was Patek Philippe’s first Travel Time wristwatch. Marketed in the United States as the “Cross Country,” it was an advanced and expensive watch for its era. In 1958, it was priced at USD 1,000, a substantial premium when compared with the legendary ref. 1518 perpetual calendar chronograph, which retailed for USD 1,500 at the time.
Housed in a classic 35.5 mm Calatrava-style case, the ref. 2597 was made in 18k yellow and pink gold by Antoine Gerlach, one of Patek Philippe’s favored case makers, also associated with such iconic references as the 96, 570, and 3448. Between 1958 and 1962, Louis Cottier is believed to have received approximately 75 movements, either caliber 12-400 or 27 AM 400, which he modified with his ingenious Travel Time setting mechanism. The first series was produced from 1958 to 1961, followed by the second series from 1962 to 1977. To date, only 48 examples in yellow gold and six in pink gold have been identified.
