Before we get to the international intrigue, let’s start by talking about what the Lennon 2499 is.
As Ben wrote in our Reference Points for perfect replica Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Chronographs, “the Patek 2499 is considered by many to be the ultimate 1:1 fake Patek Philippe, capturing old world charm with modern wearability. The 2499 is also probably the most studied and dissected of PP perpetual chronos.”
Swiss made replica Patek Philippe made just 349 examples of the 2499 over its 35-year production run. It’s complicated and rare and collectible, but also beautifully designed with modern proportions – 37.5mm, compared to its smaller predecessors.
Just a couple months ago, we wrote about some of the myth-making around the Lennon 2499, and the court case confirms some of those rumors are in fact true: Yoko Ono bought the watch for Lennon’s 40th birthday, just two months before he was murdered in New York City outside his and Ono’s apartment. The yellow gold 1:1 replica Patek Philippe 2499 was purchased at Tiffany & Co. in New York and has the retailer’s signature on the dial.
The date of purchase means it’s a fourth series 2499, the last series of the reference, produced from 1978 through 1985 and differentiated from earlier references by its modern sapphire crystal.
The aaa quality fake Patek Philippe Lennon 2499 was further engraved with a single word on the back, in reference to the first song from an album that Ono and Lennon composed after their brief separation. (The court filings redact the word that’s engraved and no one will tell me, so leave your best guess in the comments!)
I’ve been told the Swiss movement copy Patek Philippe Lennon 2499 is in pristine condition. When it was first brought to Christie’s in 2014, it was in like new condition, on the original Patek strap. The pin buckle stretched just a single hole on the strap, where Lennon wore the watch.