“THE LAST EMPRESS” PATEK PHILIPPE HUNTER CASED PENDANT WATCH

One of the pleasures of collecting vintage Patek Philippe watches is learning about the original owners and understanding the context in which they were made and used. In this research, many fascinating surprises are revealed as Patek Philippe watches were often purchased by, or given as gifts to kings and queens, leading business people, and individuals who were masters of their craft. The cuvette, or dust cover, of a watch is often the key to unlocking these secrets and this timepiece does not disappoint. The inscription is elegantly engraved “1888 Lembrança de D. Thereza Christina Maria a Francisca de Carapebus Tourinho” indicating that this watch was bought as a gift by Dona Tereza Cristina delle Due Sicilie, the last Empress of Brazil.  She was a hugely influential figure in the history of 19th century Brazil and was known at the time as “The Mother of All Brazilians”. This watch was presented to a friend close to the royal family, the Countess of Carapebus. Interestingly, the year 1888 is engraved on the watch which was a hugely important year for the Empress and for Brazil. It was the year of the ‘Golden Rule’ and the abolishment of slavery in Brazil. This law was signed into effect on May 13, 1888 by the Empress’s daughter known popularly as “The Redemptress”, more formally as Princess Isabel on May 13, 1888.

The watch itself is a testament to Patek Philippe’s high quality of gem setting, enameling and engraving. It is highly likely that the meaning of the red enamel flower is significant as well as the diamonds which may be of Brazilian origin. Preserved in exceptional condition, this important piece of Brazilian history is literally a time capsule that marks the end of an era. Within a year of giving this precious gift, the royal family of Brazil was exiled to Europe and the grieving Empress passed away from a cardiac arrest.