Patek Philippe

The reference 1491 was first introduced in 1940 and enjoyed a healthy production run of a quarter century. However, relatively few were made and it is estimated only 400 left the Patek manufacture in this 25 year period, ceasing entirely in 1965. 

The watch is distinguished by its ornate, scrolled lugs; a feature that, rather pleasingly, isn't immediately noticeable upon glancing the time and is therefore perhaps more to the enjoyment of one asking than the time, than the one replying. The design is all the more interesting given the time at which the watch was produced, a time where, as other watches bear testament, the manufacture toyed with case design to an extent greater than it ever had. 

This particular example, made in 1946, is signed twice; once by Patek at twelve, then again above the subsidiary seconds by E. Gübelin. Established in Lucerne, Switzerland in 1854 this now esteemed retailed quickly garnered huge recognition and a reputation for dealing only in the finest jewellery and watches.

This watch is, then, a rarity to say the least. Produced in pink gold with a pink dial, double signed and preserved in fabulous condition, from the family of the original owner, this watch surely offers any collector, both those seasoned, and new to the field, a superb opportunity to acquire a piece of Patek's history.