1950s Patek Philippe Hour Glass Dress Watch (Ref. 2468)

History and Significance

Patek Philippe has a remarkable history of creating watches that challenge conventional case design, particularly during the middle of the twentieth century. While the Calatrava established the brand's reputation for timeless round dress watches, a fascinating collection of shaped watches demonstrated an entirely different side of the manufacture. These designs embraced architectural forms, unusual proportions, and creative approaches to traditional watchmaking. Among the most interesting examples is the extraordinarily uncommon Patek Philippe Hour Glass, the reference 2468.

The reference 2468 takes its name from the distinctive hourglass-inspired silhouette of its case. Rather than following the straight lines of a conventional rectangular watch, the design introduces subtle curves that create a beautiful sculptural quality. The unusual crystal follows the architecture of the case, adding another dimension to an already fascinating design. Together, these elements create a watch that feels more like a carefully considered piece of jewelry than a traditional wristwatch.

Shaped Patek Philippe watches occupy a particularly interesting corner of vintage collecting. Many were produced in comparatively small quantities, and certain designs have become exceptionally difficult to encounter. The reference 2468 is understood to have been produced in only a handful of examples, making the Hour Glass an especially elusive model. Its unconventional appearance also reflects an era when Patek Philippe was willing to explore artistic design alongside the technical traditions that established the manufacture's reputation.

Writer’s Thoughts

The Patek Philippe Hour Glass reference 2468 is the kind of watch that makes vintage collecting so interesting. Its unusual silhouette immediately distinguishes it from the countless traditional dress watches produced throughout the same period. The flowing case design and distinctive crystal create an appearance that feels genuinely special rather than simply different for the sake of being different. There is a wonderful sense of creativity here, particularly considering the typically conservative design language associated with Patek Philippe.

Our Promise

Every watch is thoroughly vetted, carefully described with complete transparency, and guaranteed authentic. Each piece is offered in honest condition, ensuring collectors receive a timepiece that reflects both originality and integrity.

Brand: Patek Philippe

Model: Hour Glass

Reference: 2468

Year: Circa 1950s

Case Material: 18K Yellow Gold

Case Size: 23mm x 39mm

Dial: Silver Dial with Applied Gold Arabic Numerals, Hour Markers, and Subsidiary Seconds

Movement: Mechanical Manual Wind

Strap/Buckle: Original Patek Philippe Black Leather Strap

Buckle/Clasp: Original Patek Philippe 18K Yellow Gold Buckle

Contents: Watch only

Case: Very good vintage condition with light surface wear and visible caseback scratches.

Dial: Attractive vintage condition with light aging.

Hands: Well preserved with light age-related wear.

Crystal: Distinctive shaped crystal with light surface wear.

Strap/Buckle: Original Patek Philippe strap showing wear.

Buckle/Clasp: Original gold buckle with light surface scratches.