Reference 1491, introduced in 1940, exemplifies Patek Philippe's unwavering commitment to innovation, whether it be in the form of enhanced movements or, in this instance, improved designs. Its unique sculptural lugs signaled the start of a new era for watchmaking aesthetics, which would reach its zenith in the 1960s with the introduction of stepped bezels, unusual case shapes, and intricate lug designs.

A valuable addition to any seasoned collector's collection, the present timepiece is made even more desirable by being one of the few pieces made for Patek Philippe's renowned Caracas retailer, Serpico y Laino. As customary, the caseback's exterior is stamped with the recognizable 'S&L' and '18K'.

Serpico y Laino
Serpico y Laino was founded in the late 1920s by two Italian immigrants, Leopoldo Serpico and Vicente Laino, a young goldsmith. After meeting with Hans Wilsdorf in Geneva in the early 1930s, the company, which had previously concentrated on jewelry, quickly expanded into watches and eventually became the only authorized distributor of Rolex in Venezuela. Soon after, the business also obtained the status of sole authorized distributor of Patek Philippe. Serpico y Laino closed its doors in 1966 after forty years of successful operations and a reputation as the top watch retailer in Caracas.