CIRCA: 1950s
CASE MATERIAL: Yellow gold
CASE DIAMETER: 34 mm.
DIAL: Silvered
MOVEMENT: Manual
FUNCTIONS: Time only
BUCKLE: Yellow gold Patek Philippe buckle
BOX: No
PAPERS: No
REMARK: Retailed by Serpico y Laino

Conditions of Sale
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Lot Essay

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.

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Condition report

A Christie's specialist may contact you to discuss this lot or to notify you if the condition changes prior to the sale.

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The condition of lots can vary widely and the nature of the lots sold means that they are unlikely to be in a perfect condition. Lots are sold in the condition they are in at the time of sale.

Movement: The movement is ticking at the time of cataloguing and all functions are working; however, a service is recommended. Christie’s does not guarantee the future working of the movement.
Dial: Very good, has been restored in the past. Some signs of ageing and spots.
Case: With scratches and dents. 'S&L' engraving on the case back is legible. The hallmark below the lug is crisp. Caseback has scratches.
Buckle: Many scratches and dents.
Strap: The watch is sold and delivered with a Christie's branded strap, the original strap is not included in the sale.

Should you require additional details or pictures, please contact a specialist.

The condition of lots sold in our auctions can vary widely due to factors such as age, previous damage, restoration, repair and wear and tear. Their nature means that they will rarely be in perfect condition. Lots are sold "as is," in the condition they are in at the time of the sale, without any representation or warranty or assumption of liability of any kind as to condition by Christie's or by the seller.
Any reference to condition in a catalogue entry or in a condition report will not amount to a full description of condition, and images may not show a lot clearly. Colours and shades may look different in print or on screen to how they look on physical inspection. Condition reports may be available to help you evaluate the condition of a lot. Condition reports are provided free of charge as a convenience to our buyers and are for guidance only. They offer our opinion but they may not refer to all faults, inherent defects, restoration, alteration or adaptation because our staff are not professional restorers or conservators. For that reason they are not an alternative to examining a lot in person or taking your own professional advice. It is your responsibility to ensure that you have requested, received and considered any condition report.

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