Rare Platinum Patek Philippe Wristwatch with Diamond-Set Case Back

Formerly Property of the Estate of Count John Francis McCormack, Patek Philippe a rare platinum wristwatch circa 1930, dial: silvered, Breguet numerals, calibre: manual winding, 18 jewels, movement number: 824595, case: large curved hinged rectangular, case back diamond-set and engraved lily to John, July 2nd 1931, Patek Philippe international Customer service sticker attached, case number: 416574, Closure: black leather strap, dimensions: 37 mm x 26 mm, signed: case, dial and movement, accessories: copy of Patek Philippe Geneve full service of labour and parts invoice dated 17 January 2017, various photos taken during the current vendor's ownership, travel case. Provenance: Property of the Estate of John Francis Count McCormack, Important Jewels & Watches, Sotheby's Australia, 4 December, lot 288, illustrated, Private Collection, Sydney, acquired from the above. The present wristwatch was the Property of John Francis McCormack (14 June 1884 - 16 September 1945). Count John Francis McCormack was an internationally renowned Irish tenor, celebrated for his performances of the operatic and popular song repertoires, renowned worldwide for his diction and breath control. McCormack had an extremely successful career and made millions from his recordings and appearances. He was the first to record It's a long Way to Tipperary in 1914. In 1917, McCormack was given an honorary doctorate by the holy cross. In 1924, France awarded him the Legion of Honour and was honoured by the Notre Dame in 1933. McCormack went on to become a Papal Count of the Vatican in 1928. John McCormack ended his career at the Royal Albert hall in London in 1938. However a year later, he began again singing for the Red Cross in support of the war effort and continued to record and give concerts until 1943. The present watch was a gift to John from his wife Elizabeth 'Lily' Foley, also a brilliant singer (soprano), John married lily in 1906. The platinum case back is beautifully diamond set and engraved lily to John July 2nd 1931. This watch was first offered at auction by the original owner's grandson.