89 Patek Philippe Extremely Rare and Very Well Preserved, Calatrava in Yellow Gold, Fancy Lugs, Breguet Numbers Dial, With Extract from the Archives, Reference 1589

Estimate: € 20,000 –⁠ 40,000

Sold € 39,000

Model: Calatrava Fancy Lugs
Reference: 1589
Case Material: Yellow Gold
Bracelet Material: Leather Strap
Year: 1951
Movement: Manual
Caliber: 12-120
Case N°: 302990
Movement N°: 967746
Dimensions: 36 mm
Signed: Dial, Movement and Case
Accessories: Extract from the Archives

From an artistic perspective, the ’40s till the’60s witnessed the emergence of Abstract Expressionism, a movement with notable figures like Mark Rothko and Jackson Pollock in America. This movement, characterized by its emotionally charged and self-expressive intensity, conveyed a sense of rebellion, anarchy, and distinct idiosyncrasy. Meanwhile, in Switzerland, Patek Philippe remained unswayed by this current, steadfastly upholding its principles of linearity and refinement. Exemplifying this commitment is the Patek Philippe reference 1589, presented here. Introduced in 1944, it belongs to the first series featuring the calibre 12“'120 movement, akin to the watch at hand, and the second series equipped with the calibre 12”'400. The watch’s elegant case perfectly encapsulates Patek’s vision for a wristwatch suitable for formal occasions, characterized by subtlety, an inclined bezel, and concave lugs. The well-preserved yellow-gold case still bears visible hallmarks. The dial is a testament to Patek Philippe’s commitment to refinement, boasting a brushed silver surface adorned with applied yellow-gold Breguet numerals, outer dot minute indexes, and a subsidiary seconds dial. The yellow gold feuille hands add a finishing touch to the dial’s elegance. The watch presented for sale is believed to be one of only three examples of a yellow-gold reference 1589 with Breguet numerals known to have appeared in public to date. In an era dominated by Abstract Expressionism, Patek Philippe stood as a beacon of timeless sophistication and classical design.