This watch is in the founders Iconic collection of Patek Philippe watches and not for sale.
Introduction:
Patek Philippe 523 Vintage rectangular Asymmetric Drivers watch. Very Rare. The watch is made in 18K yellow gold and measures 39x23mm with triple step rib flutes on side with an angle towards the eye to see while driving. The watch was made in 1936 and is fitted with 8"'85 caliber 18-jewel movement #850107, case # 616718. The watch is accompanied with an extract from the archives confirming its date of manufacture and further. The watch is further accompanied with a Patek Philippe strap and its original 18K Patek buckle.
Case: Massive polished Rectangular Asymmetric Drivers watch in 18K yellow gold with stepped curved ribbed flutes on sides. Domed Bombay shaped case, measuring 39 x 23mm
Dial: Silver white with four Arabic raised gold hour markers separated with gold dots and minute track.
Movement: 8"-85 caliber 18-jewel movement, #850107, case # 616718. Lever escapement Breguet balance spring.
Date & Paperwork: The watch was made in 1936 and sold April 8, 1938. The watch is accompanied with an extract from the archives confirming its date of manufacture and further sale. A Patek Philippe strap and its original vintage gold buckle
Essay: Reference 523, along with Reference 524, was produced from 1936 through 1940, and is one of the very few asymmetrical shape watches made by Patek Philippe. They were also used as driver's watches, because the shape allowed for better readability of the dial when on the wrist, holding the steering wheel.
References 523 and 524 were made with two calibers - the small round cal. 8"85 and the more rare tonneau-shape cal. 9'''90. The main difference between the two references is the case back. Only two hundred pieces of the two references were made overall.