Patek Philippe Ref. 2424J Flame Lugs 18K Yellow Gold circa 1946

Introduced in 1946 and produced into the early 1950s, Patek Philippe’s reference 2424 is one of the manufacture’s most distinctive postwar shaped watches. Nicknamed the “Fiamma,” or “Flame,” by Italian collectors, its defining feature is the pair of oversized, downturned flame-shaped lugs. Although the case measures approximately 30 mm across, the dramatic lugs extend the watch to roughly 44 mm overall, giving the compact square case a remarkably sculptural and substantial presence on the wrist.

This circa 1946 example is executed in 18K yellow gold and pairs its stepped case and flame lugs with an elegant silvered sunburst dial, applied gold markers, gold hands, and subsidiary seconds at 6 o’clock. The restrained dial provides a striking contrast to the expressive case design, a combination that makes the 2424 particularly memorable among mid-century Patek Philippe watches. The reference uses Patek Philippe’s manually wound caliber 10-200, and this example is fitted to a custom leather strap with its original Patek Philippe buckle.

The watch presents very nicely overall. The case shows light wear and scratches with attractive patina and visible hallmarks, and the crystal has light scratching. The dial shows minor age near 10–11 o’clock and presents very well. We do not believe the dial has been refinished, though prior refinishing cannot be ruled out definitively.