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For decades, the watch community has been captivated by the mysterious tale of John Lennon’s missing Patek Philippe Ref. 2499, a highly coveted timepiece gifted to him by Yoko Ono for his 40th birthday in 1980. Tragically, just two months after receiving this treasured gift, Lennon was assassinated outside the Dakota Building in New York City, an event that shocked the world and plunged his fans into mourning.
This exceptional timepiece, celebrated for its intricate perpetual calendar and chronograph complications, became the focus of a long-standing mystery following Lennon’s untimely death, triggering rumours and speculations that have endured for over forty years.
Between 1952 and approximately 1985, Patek Philippe meticulously crafted only 349 units of the ref 2499. This exquisite timepiece, acquired by Yoko Ono from Tiffany on Fifth Avenue, is celebrated for its remarkable ability to track time in multiple dimensions. Its dial features three apertures—displaying the day of the week, month, and moon phase—and three subdials that track seconds, elapsed minutes, and the date.
The ref. 2499 stands as a pinnacle of horological innovation and craftsmanship, showcasing Patek Philippe’s mastery in combining intricate complications with timeless design. Each watch, available predominantly in yellow gold but also in rose gold, white gold, and occasionally platinum, represents a rare blend of functionality and elegance.
Its perpetual calendar ensures accurate timekeeping across varying months and leap years, while the chronograph function allows precise measurement of elapsed time—a testament to the watchmaker’s commitment to precision and reliability.
Following Lennon’s untimely death, the Patek Philippe Ref. 2499 mysteriously vanished, setting off a chain of persistent rumours and speculations spanning over four decades.
Some theories suggest the watch was initially sold to a dealer in New York, only to vanish again amidst allegations of theft raised by the Lennon family. More recent disclosures hint that Lennon’s former driver might have been involved in its disappearance, initiating its passage through various hands, eventually reaching an Italian collector via Turkey.
In a surprising turn of events, the watch surfaced at a German auction house in 2014, where it fetched 600,000 Swiss francs. However, its disputed stolen status triggered a protracted legal dispute over rightful ownership between Yoko Ono and the collector.
This legal battle has drawn attention globally, underscoring the watch’s immense value not just monetarily – estimated to potentially reach up to 4.4 million USD—but also as a cultural artifact tied to a music legend.
In essence, John Lennon’s missing Patek Philippe is far more than a mere lost possession; it stands as a testament to his enduring influence and the compelling allure of his personal artifacts. This watch, crafted by the prestigious Swiss watchmaker Patek Philippe, epitomizes luxury, precision, and exclusivity—qualities that resonate deeply with the legacy of the legendary musician.
Lennon, known for his distinctive style, was often seen wearing various watches throughout his life. However, the specific Patek Philippe he owned has become a symbol of intrigue and mystery since it seemingly vanished without a trace after his tragic death.
The watch, with its impeccable design and storied brand heritage, would have been a significant piece, not only in terms of value but also as a reflection of Lennon’s taste.
While we may not be able to solve the mystery of the missing watch, we offer a carefully curated selection of Patek Philippe watches for you to choose from. Feel free to browse our selection below, or if you would prefer to see them in person, we invite you to visit our luxury showroom were one of our staff will be happy to assist you.
If you don’t see the watch you want in our current inventory, be sure to let our team know. We have comprehensive sourcing services to help you find your dream watch. Get in touch with the team at BQ Watches today to talk watches!
