A grail watch for many, the 2499 is often seen as one of Patek’s finest. Featuring a chronograph and perpetual calendar in a case much sturdier than its predecessor 1518, the 2499 is an icon among icons.There are generally four versions of the 2499 to be distinguished:- first series: square chronograph buttons, applied Arabic numerals andtachymeter scale (1951-1955)- second series: round chronograph buttons, either applied baton or appliedArabic numerals and tachymeter scale (1955-1960)- third series: round chronograph buttons, applied baton numerals and outerseconds divisions in 5′ increments, such as the watch pictured (1960-1978)-fourth series: round chronograph buttons, applied baton numerals, outerseconds divisions and sapphire crystal (1978-1985)The present example, as sold by Christie’s, furthermore has a Cartier-signed dial.
