Swiss 18K gold keyless lever Ricochet dress watch Circa 1965

Gold asymmetrical lever watch 
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A magnificent and rare Swiss 18 carat gold keyless open faced Ricochet dress watch designed by Gilbert Albert for Patek Philippe in Geneva, circa 1965. Retailed by Tiffany & Co. in New York, U.S.A. The watch features a rhodium plated movement adorned with the Seal of the Geneva quality mark, Geneva striping decoration, 18 jewels, a straight line lever escapement, and a Gyromax balance that is adjusted for heat, cold isochronism and five positions. It further includes a shock absorber and a self compensating Breguet balance spring. The gold textured dial displays black hour indexes and original blued steel Breguet style hands. The solid textured asymmetrical case exhibits a radial sunburst pattern and has a snap on back. Both the case and movement are signed by the maker, while the dial bears the signatures of both the maker and the retailer.
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Dimensions: 45 x 39 mm
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Signed: Patek Philippe Genève Swiss – Tiffany & Co.
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The case is in excellent overall condition with light signs of wear throughout. The dial is also in excellent overall condition, exhibiting minor signs of age. The movement is functioning well.
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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.