This unique Patek Philippe ref.1513 is the only example known in this handsome configuration.  

Patek Philippe is synonymous with making the most finely crafted watches and their proclivity was for pieces made in fine metals. Steel and bimetal watches by the brand are very rare throughout the brands history. In the case of the beautiful 35mm ref.1513 this is demonstrated particularly. Fewer than a dozen examples are known in steel, and of the variant with sun seconds only two examples are known of the 1513AJ and 1513AR, of which those feature gold lugs.

This is the only steel cased example to feature these attractive rose gold elements, namely the hands, hour markers and crown. It is also the only example to feature this stunning “rose silver” dial in this wonderful configuration. This special piece is also a full set, complete with its original box, original papers and extract confirming the rose gold elements and this unique Rose Silver dial.

The well preserved steel case was made by Wenger and at 35mm excl. crown it sits very nicely on the wrist, the long stick lugs providing good span. The alluring rose silver dial has aged with grace and the warmth along with the rose gold elements results in a watch with real presence.

Purchased by its original owner at Haussmann & Co in Rome, one can picture the owner of this piece in the bustling streets, trattoria and restaurants of Rome with this subtle but statement piece adorning his wrist.

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The ref.1513 was launched in 1941 and produced for a period of approximately 10 years, most examples were made in 18k Yellow or Pink Gold. Very few examples were made in steel or in two-tone (Steel and Yellow or Rose Gold respectively).

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The 1st series examples of the reference were made using the calibre 12-120 and the 2nd series examples produced after 1950 used the calibre 12-400. The 35mm two part cases were made by Wenger, Poinçon de Maître, key number 1, a revered case maker, known for their outstanding steel cases and development of acier inoxyable cases. Wenger made many historically important case designs for Patek Philippe such as the rare ref.106 reverse, steel 1518 and cases for the 2499 to name but a few.