Important Modern & Vintage Timepieces

Monaco, Jan 24, 2021

LOT 143

PATEK PHILIPPE, REF. 3579/1, RETAILED BY HOWES, STEEL

EUR 8,000 - 16,000

USD 9,700 - 19,400 / HKD 75,200 - 150,400

Fine and very rare stainless steel manual winding wristwatch, tonneaushaped case, caseback engraved, blue dial with retailer’s signature


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Grading System
Grade: AAA

Excellent

Case: 2-8

Very good

Slightly scratched

Movement: 2*

Very good

Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense

Dial: 2-11-01

Very good

Slightly worn

HANDS Original

Brand Patek Philippe

Reference 3579/1

Year Circa 1975

Movement No. 1227962

Case No. 524556

Bracelet Stainless steel with stainless steel clasp not signed

Caliber 23-300

Dimensions 33 x 36 mm

Signature Case, dial and movement

Accessories Extract from the archives

Notes

Patek Philippe launched the reference 3579 in 1969 and it was only in production for five years. Only made in stainless steel, the reference had two dial variants, matte silvered or blue, like the present example. These watches feature the extra flat 23-300 movement and two piece tonneau shaped cases with screw down case backs – the latter being engraved here.
The presence of the retailer signature on the dial further enhances the desirability. Edward and Benjamin Howes opened a jewelry store in Iowa in the early 1900's, and became well-known as retailers of pearls. The store would eventually close, and Benjamin moved out to the west coast and opened his own jewelry shop, B.D. Howes & Son Jeweler, in 1919, in Los Angeles. Benjamin was able to expand the business on the west coast to include 10 shop locations, and eventually became a retailer for Patek Philippe watches. He died on January 18th, 1939.