34.
A fne, very rare and attractive yellow gold chronograph wristwatch with “bean”-shaped lugs
Manufacturer
Patek Philippe
Year
1940
Reference No.
591
Movement No.
862’470
Case No.
621’704
Model Name
“Fagiolino”
Material
18K yellow gold
Calibre
Manual, cal. 13’’’, 23 jewels
Bracelet/Strap
Alligator
Clasp/Buckle
18K yellow gold Patek Philippe buckle stamped PPco
Dimensions
34mm. Diameter
Signed
Case, dial, movement and buckle signed
Estimate CHF 40,000-70,000 Σ $39,600-69,400 €37,100-64,800 Accessories Accompanied by Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confrming production of the present watch with silvered dial, raised gold indexes and tachometer scale in 1940 and its subsequent sale on November 4th, 1940.
Patek Philippe frst launched reference 591 in 1938. At the time of production, the model was entirely diferent from anything that the manufacture had ever produced. The case, produced by Wenger, featured “bean” shaped lugs, lovingly dubbed “Fagiolino”, or “little bean”. The angular, and relatively sharp lines starkly contrasted with the smooth Calatrava design of reference 130 and 533. Reference 591 was also larger than its chronograph siblings, boasting a 34 millimeter case diameter, giving the watch a modern aesthetic today. This particular example is preserved in wonderful condition, with a crisp and sharp hallmark between the pushers. The dial furthermore retains its long signature, with a strong accent in the “Genève” text. Retaining its original crown, one can admire how remarkably well-preserved the lugs are. It is particularly easy to spot polishing on this reference, as the lugs and bezel easily lose their defnition. It is interesting to note that the inside case back has multiple service markings from the same watchmaker. One can only conclude that the watch was lovingly well preserved and maintained by its previous owner. Reference 591 was produced in exceedingly small numbers. In fact, it is the rarest chronograph model that the frm produced throughout the 1930s and 1950s. Research suggests that less than 17 examples cased in yellow gold have appeared on the market thus far, with approximately 34 examples produced in total. The last yellow gold example surfaced in 2013, which really enhances the utmost rarity of the present watch.
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