Maker: |
Patek Philippe |
Model: |
601'01 Solar Clock |
Date: |
Manufactured in 1957 |
Case: |
Rhodium-plated silver case with turned silver columns to the angles, solid silver sides and silver door to the back, solar panel in the top |
Dial: |
Original silvered dial in wonderful condition with applied gold baton numerals and gold hands |
Movement: |
Original solar and battery-powered quasi-mechanical movement numbered 872'690 This clock comes with an extract from the Patek Philippe archives stating that the clock was manufactured in 1957 and sold in 1968 An identical Patek Philippe silver solar clock with movement numbered 872'536 was sold at Christie's New York for $31,000 |
Price: |
£18,000 |
Info: |
The Patek Philippe 6010 Solar Clock, or more generally, the Patek Philippe Solar-powered clock represents a pioneering integration of light-powered technology into fine horology. Developed after the establishment of the company's electronic division in 1948. This "light-wound" mechanism, patented in 1954, uses photoelectric cells to power an accumulator that then winds a mechanical movement, enabling the clock to run for extended periods in darkness. The first such clock was presented in 1955 showcasing an intricate blend of artisanal craftsmanship and advanced technology that continues to be a hallmark of Patek Philippe's innovations. Key Milestones in the Patek Philippe Solar Clock's History • 1948: Patek Philippe's Electronic Division is founded to explore advanced timekeeping technologies, including photoelectric, electronic, and nuclear power. • 1954: Patek Philippe patents its breakthrough photoelectric energy mechanism, a system for light-powered winding of a mechanical movement. • 1955: The first Patek Philippe solar clock, featuring a decorative cloisonné enamel dome case with the solar panel on top, is exhibited at the World Symposium. • 1955-1957: The clock – including an identical silver example to this clock - is displayed at the Museum of Science in Boston and receives significant attention for its innovative approach to continuous mechanical movement. • 1957: Tiffany & Co., Patek Philippe's long-standing US retailer, receives the first shipments of these innovative timepieces. How It Works The clock's solar panel generates electricity from natural or artificial light, which is stored in an electronic accumulator. This stored energy then powers a motor to wind the mainspring of the integrated mechanical movement. The system allows the clock to function for a year in darkness, or for a day with only four hours of light exposure. Innovation and Collectability The solar clock was a testament to Patek Philippe's forward-thinking approach, predating even the company's first automatic wristwatch movement. The creation successfully merged traditional Swiss watchmaking with sophisticated, cutting-edge technology, producing unique works of art. These "light-wound" table clocks remain highly sought-after by collectors for their rarity, technical significance, and aesthetic appeal, representing an important and often overlooked chapter in the history of timekeeping innovation. |
