Patek Philippe Two-Tone Yellow & White Gold Rectangular Dress Watch - 'Breguet' Dial w/ Box & Extract

As far as brand identity goes, Patek Philippe, unlike many brands, is seemingly free of being associated with any one model in particular, and instead enjoys a reputation for quality, craftsmanship, and a long-standing pedigree as a top Swiss manufacturer.

Of course, there are models and model families that are nothing short of icons (e.g., Nautifuls, Calatrava, Grand Complications, etc.) but if you dig deep enough there are hidden gems that do not even fall into any of these families.

Take the rectangular dress watch that we have here for example. Dating to circa 1930, this piece is reminiscent of what would later become the 'Gondolo,' but predates the model family.

The case comes in at approximately 28mm x 37mm and features a white gold mid-case with a yellow gold bezel and caseback. Yes, this is a two tone yellow and white gold piece! Additionally, when worn on the wrist and viewed from a profile view, the case has a subtle and elegant curve to it, allowing for an incredible comfortable and svelte wearing experience. The recessed crown at the 3 o'clock position also caters to that svelte feel on the wrist. Couple the case dimensions — which, in its day, must have been considered on the larger side — with the 22mm lug spacing and the result is a surprisingly modern feel on the wrist. However, this is a nearly 100-year old watch and what a looker it is. Inside that case the silver dial shows its age, exhibiting patina and areas of wear throughout and presents honestly. The highlight of this dial, of course, is the stunning applied 'Breguet'-style indices in yellow gold, which are complimented by a matching yellow gold 'spade' handset. Fantastic. Naturally, this piece is powered by a manually-wound movement.

Last but not least, this piece is accompanied by its original brown box and extract from Patek's archives (on order).

There are watches, and then there are watches! This is one of the latter.