281 Patek Philippe An impressively well preserved, exceptional, and highly attractive, Spider Lugs, manual wristwatch in yellow gold, retailed by Somazzi, with Extract from the Archives, reference 1579.
Estimate: € 100.000 – 200.000
Create an account or log in to place bids.
- Model Spider Lugs
- Year 1960
- Reference 1579
- Case Material 18K yellow gold
- Case Number 699'387
- Bracelet Material Leather Strap
- Movement Manual, cal. 13", 23 jewels
- Movement Number 868'277
- Dimension 36mm Diameter
- Signed Case, dial and movement
- Accessories Accompanied by Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming the production of the present movement in 1952, cased in 1960, and its subsequent sale on May 25th 1960, fitted presentation box.
If one were to distill the audacity of mid-century Patek Philippe into a single chronograph, the reference 1579 would stand proudly at the forefront. Introduced in 1943, the 1579 was not merely another reference, it was a statement. Bold, architectural, and unapologetically modern for its day, it dared to break from convention with its extraordinary faceted lugs, later affectionately christened by collectors as “spider lugs.”
Its geometry truly captivates: the sharply angled, diamond-like lugs extend outward with dramatic flair, creating a play of light that transforms the watch into a miniature sculpture. On the present example, cased in 1960, these defining elements remain breathtakingly intact. The edges are strikingly crisp, the facets sharp and expressive, the proportions full. In a landscape where so many vintage cases have suffered from the softening hand of over-polishing, encountering a 1579 with such architectural clarity is nothing short of revelatory.
The dial is a lesson in classical restraint. The typography is beautifully preserved, retaining its depth and sharpness. Adding a layer of romance and rarity, the dial bears the signature of Somazzi Lugano, an evocative reminder of the era when prestigious retailers lent their names to exceptional pieces.
What is perhaps most remarkable is the overall state of preservation. The dial displays extraordinary vitality for a watch of this age. The applied markers and hands, warm against the yellow gold case, create a visual dialogue that feels entirely original and untouched by time’s excesses.
Accompanied by its Extract from the Archives confirming its 1960 sale, this reference 1579 represents a masterclass in condition, a study in form, and a reminder that true greatness in watchmaking lies as much in preservation as in design.
Condition Report
Create an account or log in to view the condition report!
Auction Preview
MONACO
Hôtel Méridien Beach Plaza, 22 avenue Princesse Grâce
24 April - From 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM
25 April - From 10:00 AM to 12:30 PM