1077
Patek Philippe
Ref. 1491
"Ricciolo"
A well-preserved and attractive pink gold wristwatch with small seconds, pink dial, fancy lugs and Certificate of Origin
Full-Cataloguing
- Known for its distinctive scrolled lugs (Italian nickname “Ricciolo,” meaning “curl”)
- This “pink on pink” example is exceptionally well-preserved
- Accompanied by its Certificate of Origin and Extract from the Archives
The Patek Philippe ref. 1491 stands as a delightful departure from the classic gentleman’s wristwatch. Produced between 1940 and 1958, this model distinguished itself with boldly scrolled lugs—the origin of its Italian nickname “Ricciolo,” meaning “curl.” In an era defined by restrained design sensibilities, the ref. 1491 emerged as a striking exception, and today it remains immediately recognizable and highly sought after by collectors.
The present example is unquestionably one of the most compelling to appear on the market. Its pink gold case is preserved in excellent condition—a critical attribute for this reference, given that the delicate architecture of its lugs is particularly vulnerable to polishing. Yet it is the dial that truly sets this piece apart. Rather than the conventional silver finish, it presents a salmon-toned dial creating a “pink on pink” aesthetic beloved by collectors.
Completing its rarity, this piece dates to 1945 and is among the earliest examples of the reference. Accompanied by its Certificate of Origin and Extract from the Archives, this ref. 1491 is a collector’s timepiece not to be overlooked.
Patek Philippe
Swiss | 1839Since its founding in 1839, this famous Geneva-based firm has been surprising its clientele with superbly crafted timepieces fitted with watchmaking's most prestigious complications. Traditional and conservative designs are found across Patek Philippe's watches made throughout their history — the utmost in understated elegance.
Well-known for the Graves Supercomplication — a highly complicated pocket watch that was the world’s most complicated watch for 50 years — this family-owned brand has earned a reputation of excellence around the world. Patek's complicated vintage watches hold the highest number of world records for results achieved at auction compared with any other brand. For collectors, key models include the reference 1518, the world's first serially produced perpetual calendar chronograph, and its successor, the reference 2499. Other famous models include perpetual calendars such as the ref. 1526, ref. 3448 and 3450, chronographs such as the reference 130, 530 and 1463, as well as reference 1436 and 1563 split seconds chronographs. Patek is also well-known for their classically styled, time-only "Calatrava" dress watches, and the "Nautilus," an iconic luxury sports watch first introduced in 1976 as the reference 3700 that is still in production today.