Produced in 1943, November 2025 saw the remergence of a true horological giant. A vintage Patek Philippe 1518 fetched more than $17 million at the Watches: Decade One auction, surpassing its previous record from 2016.
In Brief
- Taking place at the Hotel President in Geneva and completed in less than 10 minutes, an elusive Patek Philippe 1518 went under the hammer at the Watches: Decade One auction.
- With five different bidders, the timepiece sold via a telephone bid for a total of CHF 14,190,000 / US$17,631,075 / €15,238,641.
- Introduced in 1941, it was the first serially produced wristwatch to combine a perpetual calendar and chronograph
The Model, The Myth, The Legend
The Patek Philippe 1518 is a legendary timepiece introduced in 1941, celebrated as the world’s first perpetual calendar chronograph wristwatch ever produced in series.
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Source: Philipps
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Crafted in precious metals such as yellow gold, rose gold, and exceptionally rare stainless steel, the 1518 represents the pinnacle of Swiss watchmaking innovation and artistry.
Featuring a 35mm case, moon phase display, and chronograph functions, it showcases absolute technical mastery and timeless design.
Only 281 pieces were made and this one was the first to be produced in stainless steel, making it rarer than a Rolex Daytona 6263…or spotting the Yeti!
Mythical status doesn’t quite cut it.
Conclusion
It appears there’s no economic crisis afoot for this top Swiss luxury watch brand.
Overtaking the £9.7 million / CHF 11 million / $11.4 million figure achieved nearly a decade ago, if you want to sell a Patek Philippe and achieve the best possible price, we can certainly assist.
Delivering multiple offers from a carefully selected network of approved luxury buyers, Chrono Hunter has unmatched brand expertise, quick turnaround and most importantly the safest platform to transact.
Put down the gavel for a minute. Contact us to find out how we can help kickstart your sale effortlessly and securely.
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Further Reading:
20 Most Expensive Watches In The World - Patek Philippe 1518, Jacob & Co Millionaire
The Top 12 Most Expensive Watch Brands And Their Net Worth
5 Best Practices: How To Sell My Patek Philippe
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