Written by Alex Federici

Let’s take a closer look at the Patek Philippe reference 1463, the legendary “Tasti Tondi” chronograph, which will be auctioned on March 23 in Auction 9 – Collezione Salmoiraghi, lot 55.

Auction 9 – Salmoiraghi Collection, Lot 55, Patek Philippe Chronograph Gobbi Milan, rose gold

Discovering the first waterproof chronograph by Patek Philippe: the 1463 “Tasti Tondi”

Since its launch in 1940, collectors’ and enthusiasts’ interest in Patek Philippe reference 1463 has grown steadily. So much so that, despite being discontinued in 1965, the “Tasti Tondi” remains one of the most appreciated models of the maison to this day.

It is said that only 750 examples of the 1463 were produced: most in yellow gold, around 190 in stainless steel, and just a few in rose gold. But what lies behind the success of this chronograph? The answer is actually quite simple: water resistance.

With the 1463, Patek Philippe introduced a major innovation—it was the first (and only, until 2018) water-resistant chronograph produced by the brand. Launched in 1940, it remained in production until 1965.

The Birth of the Patek Philippe 1463 “Tasti Tondi”

But now another question arises: why are chronographs so difficult to make water-resistant?

In reality, making a watch waterproof is not overly complex, but some components are more delicate than others, as they provide potential entry points for water. The most critical elements in this regard are the winding crown and the pushers, which control the activation and adjustment of the chronograph.

These key components required technical innovation to ensure water resistance, and Patek Philippe achieved this breakthrough with the 1463, setting a new standard in high-end chronograph design.

However, it’s important to note that master watchmakers had already been producing water-resistant crowns as early as the beginning of the 20th century. The real challenge, however, was making the pushers waterproof.

The pushers on pre-1463 references were not designed to withstand water exposure—both in terms of shape and overall construction.

To achieve true water resistance, robust pushers were essential. And it was precisely from this necessity that the Patek Philippe 1463 “Tasti Tondi” was born—a groundbreaking innovation that set a new benchmark in chronograph design.

The origin of the iconic “Tasti Tondi” (round pushers)

To understand the origins of the “Tasti Tondi”, it is essential to take a step back and analyze the preceding references, 130 and 530, both featuring rectangular pushers, known as “square pushers.”

The reference 130 was introduced in 1934 and was one of the maison’s first wrist chronographs, following the production of pocket watches. It featured a 33mm case and, like the 1463, was produced in yellow gold, rose gold, steel and gold, and stainless steel only (with yellow gold being the most common, while the other configurations are extremely rare).

The reference 530 was produced between 1937 and 1944 and can be considered the bridge between the 130 and 1463. Initially, the 530 was a time-only watch, but shortly after, the chronograph complication was added. It featured a 36.5mm case and was mainly produced in yellow gold and stainless steel; today, only two known examples exist in rose gold.

In 1940, Patek Philippe 1463 was introduced. The only references featuring round pushers were the 1463 and 1563, which were also the only water-resistant chronographs created by Patek Philippe at the time.

The timepiece we are offering in Auction 9 – Collezione Salmoiraghi, lot 55, is a magnificent Patek Philippe 1463 in rose gold, enhanced by the Gobbi Milano dial. Gobbi Milano, the historic Milanese retailer, recently closed, was an esteemed dealer of Patek Philippe and other prestigious haute horology brands.

Read also:

• the article dedicated to Rolex Milgauss
• Browse the catalogue of Auction 9 – Salmoiraghi Collection