Launched in 1940, reference 1491 was made in two versions, the first series housing calibre 12-120 and featuring small seconds, the second series presented in 1943, housing calibre 27 SC with centre sweep seconds. This particular watch is certainly an early example and part of the first few ref. 1491 made with the 12-120 calibre.

This reference is distinguished by its artistic and unusual scroll lugs that give this watch, along with many other interesting designs produced by Patek Philippe at that time, a clear ‘50’s look’. This is particularly interesting given it was made in the 40’s.

The present watch, with its long ‘Patek Philippe & Co.’ signature, a distinct trademark of 1940’s Patek which it shares with the legendary reference 1518, is a great opportunity to acquire a very early piece of Patek design history.