A Very rare and large early white gold rectangular Patek Philippe wristwatch, the only example known in this configuration, complete with original box and extract from the archives.

A similar smaller cased example but with matching dial, was included in the 1989, "The Art of Patek Philippe" sale held in conjunction with the brand, such is the quality of the design of these early tank shaped pieces.

It features, as confirmed by the Extract from the archives, a brushed silver dial, made by Stern Frères which is simply beautiful with its engraved enamelled inscriptions and wonderfully art deco luminous numerals. The large white gold tank shaped case sits with real presence and elegance, the perfect blend of angular lines following from the corners of crystal, down into soft round shaped lug tips, a design language which continues into the modern collection. It is very well preserved with the hallmark well retained on the side of the case.

One can't help but draw resemblance with Cartier tanks of the same era, which have gained astronomic popularity, collectability and value. By comparison, this piece represents a great value proposition, being made by the finest manufacturer of the era, utilising the finest quality movements, cases and dials to create a piece of supreme quality. It's large form exudes elegance whilst making it very wearable in this modern age, the design executed so well that it has timeless appeal that feels just as relevant now as it would have in the late 1920's.

The case back features a magnificently engraved inscription, hand engraved to the very highest standards of the era, in the most meticulous detail. This stunning piece was originally purchased at Patek’s Canadian retailer Henry Birk’s and Son’s, as an incredible gift from the congregation of a local church to their vicar. Patek Philippe was the very finest watch one could buy at the time in terms of both quality and price, so imagine in what high regard this man must have been held by the local people to receive such a gift! Reading up on the original owner, he did a lot for the local community in his French Canadian town of Notre Dame du St. Rosaire near Montreal, Quebec. The watch remained in the local town all of its life, keeping with it the very charming original retailers box.

This gorgeous piece, the only example known in this configuration, sits with real presence on the wrist and is preserved in wonderful condition. Elegant and versatile, it can be worn at almost any occasion, casual for the every day or in full black tie, this piece would never look out of place.