Reference 1578 is the non chronographic brethren of reference 1579. The custom of having two references for the same case design - one with chronograph and one without - is somewhat of a tradition for the vintage production brand: among the most notable examples, beyond references 1578 and 1579, we can count reference 1518 and reference 1526, and their evolutions reference 2499 and 2497.

The distinguishing feature of reference 1578 is found in the lugs: the extremely complex faceted execution of this detail earned both references the nickname "spider lugs" ("anse a ragno" in Italian), due to the vague resemblance of the watch profile to the silhouette of an arachnid. The looks granted to the watch by the spider lugs is very appealing, equally unusual, and definitely unmistakable, and over time it became one of the most appreciated designs by Patek Philippe collectors. The downside of this construction is however en extreme sensitivity to polishing: the sharp edges of the lugs facets are the cornerstone on which the looks of this model is built upon, but they are doomed to fade after just a handful of polishings. Luckily, in this instance the facets are still very well preserved and defined, as are the hallmarks on the sides of the lugs.
The fact that such a design has never again been re-proposed by the brand makes the two references even more appealing and collectible: if a Patek Philippe enthusiasts wants to own one of the iconic "Patek Spider Lugs", he or she has only these two options.

Reference 1578 actually presents a complex evolution: it was produced both with small seconds at 6 o' clock, and with center seconds such as in the present instance. Not only the center seconds is considered by many the most appealing version, but it is furthermore the rarest. Center seconds 1578 can be divided in two series: the first series, in production from 1943 to 1950, features cal. 12SC, the second series (1949 - 1962) - of which the present piece is a representative - features instead the celebrated calibre 27SC. Considered one of the best center seconds vintage calibres, this movement will be used by Patek for some of their most appreciated and collectible timepieces, it will be for example the base on which the brand will build the movement of perpetual calendar reference 2497 (and 2438/1).

Its iconic looks, technical proficiency and overall rarity would already make this piece highly appealing, but the case material propels this example even further up a collector wish list, as it is made of pink gold. Before the discovery of this treasure, only 16 pink gold 1578 with cal. 27SC were known. Thus, this fresh-to-the-market piece is the 17th pink example to be discovered.