Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces

Monaco, Jul 13, 2024

LOT 209*

PATEK PHILIPPE, SWITZERLAND, REF. 2122, SQUARE ELEGANT WRISTWATCH, CONSIGNED BY THE FAMILY IF THE ORIGINAL OWNER, 18K YELLOW GOLD

EUR 1,000 - 2,000

CHF 1,000 - 1,950 / HKD 8,400 - 16,800 / USD 1,100 - 2,200

Sold: EUR 4,460

A very fine and elegant square shapped yellow gold lady wristwatch with a charming silver dial, manual wind

This Lot is submitted to commissions and taxes :
If the lot is delivered within the EU:
a 20% import VAT is due on the hammer price with buyer’s premium, plus 120€ for termination of temporary export, at buyer’s expense.
If the lot is delivered outside EU:
120€ for termination of temporary export is due,at buyer’s expense
Grading System
Grade: AAA

Excellent

Case: 8

Slightly scratched

Movement: 2

Very good

Dial: 2

Very good

Brand Patek Philippe, Switzerland

Model Square elegant wristwatch

Reference 2122

Year Circa 1960

Movement No. 943752

Case No. 650842

Bracelet elegant yellow gold bracelet

Length 17

Width 18

Weight 33,2

Signature dial, case and movement

Provenance

Patek Philippe, "Lady", 18K yellow gold wristwatch mechanical, Ref. 2122, prov. princess Nevine Halim,

Biography

Princess Nevine Abbas Halim was born on June 30, 1930, into the illustrious Muhammad Ali dynasty, which ruled Egypt from 1805 to 1952. The eldest daughter of Prince Abbas Halim (1897-1978), she was the great-great-granddaughter of Muhammad Ali Pasha, the founder of modern Egypt, on her father's side, and of Khedive Ismael, known for his significant contributions to the modernization of Egypt, on her mother's side.

Princess Nevine grew up during a period of significant social change and modernization in Egypt, which influenced her outlook and contributions to society. She was known for her cultural sophistication, intelligence, and commitment to philanthropy. Her education and upbringing in a royal family imbued her with a deep sense of responsibility towards her country and its people.

At the age of 15, she went to an English school located in Heliopolis to prepare for university. She later enrolled at the American University in Cairo. Despite the frequent political disagreements between his father and King Farouk, she often encountered the king at the Opera or the Automobile Club.

After the 1952 Revolution, her family faced significant economic difficulties. While her mother moved to the United States of America, Princess Nevine married her university classmate, Salah Al-Orabi. However, they divorced six years later, and the princess did not remarry.

Throughout her life, Princess Nevine was actively involved in various charitable activities and cultural endeavors. She had a profound interest in the arts and literature - she was passionate about books and owned approximately 3,000 volumes -, often supporting initiatives that aimed to preserve and promote Egyptian heritage. Her efforts extended to improving the welfare of women and children, reflecting her dedication to social causes.

Despite the dissolution of the Egyptian monarchy in 1952, Princess Nevine remained a respected figure, admired for her grace, dignity, and contributions to society. She embodied the legacy of her esteemed ancestors through her commitment to the cultural and social development of Egypt.

In 1961 she moved to Switzerland and studied secretarial and typing courses. She then worked as a secretary for a cigarette company, where no one knew of her royal lineage. She retired in 1994.

Since she was eight years old, she kept a journal, which eventually led her to write an autobiography published in 2020, titled "Diaries of an Egyptian Princess."

Princess Nevine Abbas Halim passed away on April 12, 2023.