Unusual Swiss 18K gold asymmetrical lever watch Circa 1967

Gold rare piece of the Ricochet collection
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A very rare Swiss 18 carat gold asymmetrical open faced Ricochet pocket watch designed by Gilbert Albert for Patek Philippe in Geneva, circa 1967. The keyless lever movement is stamped with the Seal of the Geneva quality mark, has Geneva striping decoration, 18 jewels, a Gyromax balance adjusted to heat, cold isochronism and five positions, shock absorber and self compensating Breguet balance spring. A further textured gold dial with blued hands. The textured case with a snap on back, the inside back personally inscribed To Pamela, Love and Affection, Great-Grandfather M.S. 9.15.67. Dial, case and movement signed, case and movement numbered.
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Dimensions: 40 x 40 mm
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Signed: Patek Philippe Genève Swiss
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Reference 788/2.
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According to research, only 20 pieces of the reference 788/2 were made. Of these, only five have been on the secondary market, making the present watch a particularly rare and desirable piece from the ‘Ricochet’ collection. Produced from 1961 to 1968, the ‘Ricochet’ collection is perhaps among the most famous and recognizable Gilbert Albert and Patek Philippe collaborations.
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Gilbert Albert, born September 20, 1930, is a renowned Genevan jewellery designer and artist.
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In 1955, he began designing wristwatch cases for Patek Philippe. Breaking away from traditional shapes, he introduced asymmetrical triangles and rhombic forms inspired by his passion for modern sculpture and works by artists such as Brancusi and Mondrian.
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Albert gave textured organic surfaces to the asymmetrical shapes of the Patek Philippe ‘Ricochet’ collection. However, many of his more revolutionary designs remained prototypes and were not produced in series.
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In 1962, he established his own workshop, designing and producing jewellery under his own name. Over the years, he became very successful, both in Geneva and internationally, receiving numerous awards for his jewellery. Gilbert Albert’s creations are exhibited worldwide.