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Lot Essay
Reference 1491, launched in 1940, is a perfect example of Patek Philippe's continuous search for new and avant-garde innovations, whether in the movement of their watches, or, as in this instance, in the design. The unusual lugs of this model are the progenitor of the new era of watchmaking design that fully dawned in the sixties with unusual case shapes, stepped bezels and fancy lugs.
The present example is exceptionally rare, signed by the lesser seen retailer, Le Palais Royal, Habana. While production of this reference lasted until 1965, this ref. 1491 is from an early production series of the model made with the caliber 12-120 PS with small seconds and attractive batons. This example features a beautifully aged dial with the the retail signature, Le Palais Royal from Havana, Cuba. Fresh to market and beautifully preserved, the design of the case with sweeping scrolled lugs hearkens back to a day of post-war optimism and bold design.
Le Palais Royal in Havana, Cuba, was the sole official retailer of watches, jewellery and silver at the time.
The present example is exceptionally rare, signed by the lesser seen retailer, Le Palais Royal, Habana. While production of this reference lasted until 1965, this ref. 1491 is from an early production series of the model made with the caliber 12-120 PS with small seconds and attractive batons. This example features a beautifully aged dial with the the retail signature, Le Palais Royal from Havana, Cuba. Fresh to market and beautifully preserved, the design of the case with sweeping scrolled lugs hearkens back to a day of post-war optimism and bold design.
Le Palais Royal in Havana, Cuba, was the sole official retailer of watches, jewellery and silver at the time.