Service
Halcro's experience with his 1952 Patek Philippe Ref. 1491 offers a compelling look into the meticulous restoration capabilities of Patek Philippe's Geneva workshops. His detailed account, prompted by a cracked crystal, reveals the brand's commitment to preserving the original integrity and aesthetic nuances of its vintage timepieces. This thread highlights the value of factory service for historical references, particularly the unexpected discovery of original finishing details on the lugs.
The Patek Philippe Calatrava reference 1491 is notable for its distinctive scroll lugs, a design element that sets it apart from many other Calatrava models. This reference is sometimes referred to by its Italian nickname “Ricciolo,” meaning “Curl,” directly referencing the shape of its lugs. It represents a period of design experimentation within the Calatrava line, offering a more decorative aesthetic compared to the typically minimalist Calatrava cases.
This reference was produced in various precious metals, including 18k white gold and pink gold, with a case size of 34mm in diameter and a lug-to-lug measurement of 44mm. It features a manual winding movement and is typically fitted with a sapphire crystal. The power reserve for this caliber is 42 hours, and it offers a water resistance of 30 meters.
The 1491 appeals to collectors who appreciate Patek Philippe's mid-century designs and those seeking a Calatrava with a unique case profile. Its scroll lugs provide a specific visual character that distinguishes it from more common Calatrava iterations, making it a point of interest for collectors focused on design variations and historical context within the brand's output. Examples with patinated dials are particularly sought after.
Enjoy your beautiful timepiece and wear itbin the nest of your health
Excellent work. That is one of the big things that attracts me to Patek Philippe as a company. They service anything they ever made and they do it right. Wonderful decision you made in letting them take that watch and bring it back to what it should be. Enjoy it!
Looks like it is brand new out of the showcase and definitely worth the year of work and waiting.
This is a time only, 1 year is a very long time IMHO. I can only imagine how many watches they' are just servicing, but time is also a key factor. A great job, indeed, i agree that PP is famous for his ability to service any of his watches.
I think a year to do the restoration is perfectly reasonable. Keep enjoying it !
but when they quoted, they were up front that I would have to wait 9 months for the work to be completed......luckily I have other ‘toys’ to occupy my time..... I think Patek have a much higher profit margin for their watchmakers to be assembling new watches than having them attending to the often risky and complex tasks of restoring old movements, cases, dials and hands. I think they do this work as a matter of principle....and for that, I think we should be grateful. I don’t know of any other
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