Patek Philippe

• cal. 13''' manual winding nickel lever movement, 23 jewels, bi-metallic balance • silvered dial, gold applied Arabic numerals and enamelled baton indexes, baton hands, two subsidiary dials for constant seconds and 30-minute register, outer ring calibrated for tachometer scale • 18k pink gold case, down-turned faceted lugs, snap back • case, dial and movement signed • with 18k pink gold bracelet

The movement is running and chronograph in working condition at time of cataloguing, however it was not tested for the accuracy of time or duration of the power reserve and may need service at the buyer's discretion. Please note that Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement. The dial in good condition, probably professionally gently cleaned a long time ago. With a warm an uneven natural patina, with some lighter areas for example due to the second and minute hands of the chronograph. Some light and usual scuffs throughout few discreet and minor marks. Probably professionally and gently cleaned a long time ago as expected for a watch of that age. Hands with some scuffs and the blued steel hands with signs of oxidation. The glass with some light scuffs throughout due to age. The case in good condition, polished in the past as expected for piece of that age. With the usual scuffs, scratches and indentation throughout due to age and use. Hallmark to the band at 8 polished to his edges but easy to read. The hallmark to the top right lug polished but still readable. The bracelet is not Patek Philippe, overall circumference approx 180 mm. Overall a beautiful and attractive piece, in condition in accordance to its age. Recommended.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."

The distinctive angular "Spider lugs" on this ref. 1579 make it one of Patek Philippe's most iconic chronograph wristwatches. Launched seven years after the reference 130, the 1579 differs from it with a case that measures a full 3 mm larger than its predecessor.  The configuration of the dial differs from the more common ones due to its smaller subsidiary dials and the tachymeter scale written in circle.

The present piece is fresh to the market from the family of the original owner.  Furthermore, the watch can be considered as one of the most complete and attractive examples of a vintage "South American" Patek Philippe piece. Its dial and presentation case are double signed by the Geneva manufacture and the legendary retailer Freccero based in Montevideo, Uruguay.  The retailer stamped the Certificate of Origin at the bottom as well as on the back.

The first known example of reference 1579 dates to 1943. The present watch, part of the first generation, differs from the later production of this reference. In 1950, Patek began replacing the enamel baton indexes with applied square indexes. 

Only seven examples of reference 1579R, including the present lot, have appeared to the market with the Freccero signature on the dial. Among those extremely rare watches, only two of them have enamel indexes and this watch is the only known piece to come with its box and papers.

The pink gold cases represent less than thirty per cent of the total production known of the reference 1579 with less than 70 examples identified. The present lot is complemented by an 18k pink gold finely reeded bracelet, typical of the South American Market and marked Argentina. Fitted with a leather strap, the watch seems to be a different, but equally captivating piece.

We are grateful to Eric Tortella for his assistance in researching this watch.