Property of an Important Asian Collector

1102Σ︎

Patek Philippe

Ref. 1579

Anse a Ragno

A well-preserved and attractive yellow gold chronograph wristwatch with spider lugs

HK$600,000–1,000,000
€67,200–112,000
$76,900–128,000
Patek Philippe
1949
867’709
1579
657’546
Anse a Ragno
18K yellow gold
Manual, cal. 13’’’CH, 23 jewels
Crocodile
18K yellow gold Patek Philippe pin buckle
36mm diameter
Case, dial, movement and buckle signed
Accompanied by Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming the date of manufacture of the present timepiece in 1949 and its subsequent date of sale 12th August 1950.
Good To Know:
- Mk 1 of the 2nd series dial evolution
- Confirmed by the Extract of the archives from 1949 and sold in 1950
- Well-preserved condition from a prominent collection

The Patek Philippe reference 1579 known for its striking angled lugs was affectionately dubbed “Spider Lugs” (Anse a Ragno in Italian). Each lug showcases six exquisite facets that mounts itself as an iconic chronograph from the 40s. This bold and whimsical design marks a departure from Patek Philippe’s typical Calatrava-inspired chronographs, blending strength and grace in a way that’s nothing short of captivating.

The reference was in production from 1943 until 1964 across four metals with production approximately fewer than 500 pieces: yellow gold, pink gold, platinum and stainless steel. The cases were crafted by Wenger identified by Key 1, the premier casemaker who notably crafted the stunning cases of the ref. 2499.

Two series of dial evolution can be identified:
1st series from 1943 to 1949: Arabic and baton markers, baton or feuille hands
2nd series from 1950 to 1964: Arabic and square markers, feuille hands (the present watch)

Confirmed by the Extract from the Archives, the present watch was manufactured in 1949 and sold in 1950. According to research, approximate 250 pieces were made in yellow gold. Featuring a MK 1 within the second series dial identified by its full chemin de fer track (later phased out on MK 2), the present example with the correct short signature marks the beginning of the transition to the use of square markers.

Boasting a well-preserved case where the facets of the spider lugs retains its original proportion, the brushed finishing can be admired in contrasted with the caseband. The hallmark behind the lug remains deep. Powered by the valjoux ébauche 13-130 calibre. The combination of its eclectic design and generous case size truly makes the ref. 1579 a standout piece that any enthusiast would cherish.

Patek Philippe

Swiss | 1839

Since 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.

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