Fine Swiss platinum and diamond set lever watch Circa 1928

Platinum gift watch
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A fine Swiss platinum and diamond set open faced pocket watch with Hollywood inscription made by Patek Philippe in Geneva, circa 1928. The Swiss lever movement with 18 jewels, adjusted to eight positions and signed Brock & Company, Los Angeles, Calif. Brushed silvered dial with diamond set Arabic hour numerals, outer silvered dot minute divisions, subsidiary seconds at 6 o’clock and platinum syringe hands set with diamonds. The polished round case with diamond set bezel, crown and bow, black enamelled band and a snap-on back engraved To my first talkie director Frank Borzage token of admiration and sincere friendship from John McCormack Jany. 1930.
Case, dial & movement signed.
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Diameter: 44 mm
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Signed: Patek, Philippe & Cie Geneva, Switzerland
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Comes with an Extract from the Archives confirming its manufacture in 1928 and date of sale on September 26th, 1929.
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John Francis McCormack (1884-1945) was a celebrated tenor from Ireland known for his operatic and popular song performances. With appearances in Hollywood movies such as ‘Song O’ My Heart’ and ‘Wings of the Morning’ and credited with creating the first recorded rendition of ‘It’s a long way to Tipperary’, he was one of the most successful tenors of his day.

This watch is a highly attractive Patek Philippe pocket watch with a diamond set bezel and bears a personal inscription from John McCormack to Frank Borzage, who was the producer of the film ‘Song O’ My Heart’. The film focuses on a retired opera singer who returned to his small Irish village with the subtle hope of reuniting with his childhood love, who is now living in difficult circumstances with her two children. It is believed that McCormack used the salary he earned for this movie to purchase the Runyon Canyon Estate in Hollywood.

McCormack was also known for his dedication to supporting Catholic charities and the Red Cross, and was bestowed the title of Papal Count from Pope Pius XI in recognition of his work.