The New Yorker magazine has just published a new episode in the saga of John Lennon's Patek Philippe 2499, this legendary and elusive watch, offered by Yoko Ono, stolen in 2005 and perhaps finally found. Discover the latest twists and turns in this incredible watchmaking story!
The Patek Philippe 2499, a legendary watch
The Patek Philippe 2499 is one of the most sought-after and valuable watches in the world. Made in the 1950s in fewer than 350 examples, this prestigious watch combines a chronograph and a perpetual calendar, two of the most prestigious watchmaking complications.
The copy that belonged to John Lennon is of particular importance. Offered by Yoko Ono in 1980, shortly before the artist's tragic death, it bears a dedication engraved on the back:
A mysterious theft and a surprising reappearance
In 2005, the watch was stolen, but Yoko Ono only realized it when Christie's informed her of its upcoming auction. A long legal battle ensued to determine the rightful owner of this watchmaking treasure.
In 2013, the auction house Auctionata photographed the watch, revealing for the first time the dedication engraved on the back. But the watch disappears again, fueling the speculations and fantasies of enthusiasts.
New revelations in The New Yorker
Journalist Jay Fielden, a former Hodinkee contributor, conducted the investigation for years to try to unravel the tangle of this story. In his article published in The New Yorker, he provides new elements:
According to Sean Lennon, “It’s important that we get this watch back, after everything we’ve been through. For me, she is the symbol of the danger of trusting. »
The latest twist to date
In August 2023, a judgment from the Swiss federal court relaunched the case, causing a stir in the watchmaking world. Since then, Jay Fielden has taken up the investigation, determined to unravel the mystery of this legendary watch that many consider to be “the El Dorado of lost watches”.
The story of John Lennon's Patek Philippe 2499 continues to surprise and fascinate us. Through revelations and twists and turns, it emerges as one of the greatest watchmaking enigmas of our time. A legendary watch, a daring theft, a stubborn quest for the truth… All the ingredients come together to make a captivating story, worthy of the greatest detective novels. So, get ready to thrill to the rhythm of the latest revelations about this legendary watch, and to follow with us the next episodes of this extraordinary watchmaking saga!
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