Patek Philippe 1491J Center Sweep Second Hand, Scroll Lugs Calatrava Watch Circa 1950

Introduction:  Patek Philippe 1491J Vintage Calatrava made in 18K yellow gold measuring 34mm with unusual scroll lugs, and sweep center hand.  The watch was made in 1950 and was fitted with the 27 SC caliber 18-jewel movement # 700121, Case # 659217.  The watch has its original silver white dial with a outside minute track and raised gold indices.  The watch is accompanied with its original vintage 18K gold Patek buckle and a black crocodile strap.  Further the watch is accompanied with an extract from the archives confirming its date of manufacture and further sale in 1950.

Essay:  1491: Was launched in 1940.  There were two versions, the first series with caliber 27 and subsidiary seconds, the first, such as the present watch, as of 1950 with caliber 27''' SC movement. The model is distinguished by its highly decorative scroll lugs, demonstrating Patek Philippe avant-garde spirit by using varying shapes and forms, breaking away from the straight-forward circular shape with plain lugs. Inspiration from architecture, geometry and history created a new graciousness of form with rounded corners, stepped and triple-stepped forms and other elements, like scrolls. The 1491 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 premonition of a new era of watchmaking design that will fully dawn from the sixties on with unusual case shapes, stepped bezels and fancy lugs. It is remarkable how Patek Philippe anticipated the trend by two decades

- Watch Specifications -

- Reference Number: 1491J

- Year: 1950

- Movement: Manual 18-Jewel 27 SC caliber movement

- Case Diameter: 34mm

- Dial: Silvered

- Band Type: Alligator Strap 

- Condition: Mint