Lot Essay
Reference 1491, launched in 1940, is a perfect example of Patek Philippe's continuous search for new and avant-garde innovations, whether in the movement of their watches, or, as in this instance, in the design. The unusual lugs of this model are the progenitor of the new era of watchmaking design that fully dawned in the sixties with unusual case shapes, stepped bezels and fancy lugs.
Gobbi Milano
In 1842, Raimondo Gobbi, a lover of horology, opened his workshop in Modena. The business was carried on with such competence and commitment that already ten years later, in 1852, the Grand Duke allowed him to boast of the appointment 'Clockmaker to the Royal Court'. At the time, the sales and focus was on pocket watches and pendulum clocks. Raimondo’s youngest son, Giuseppe, helped with his technical skills to develop the firm and in 1896 he moved to Milan, opening a workshop in Corso Vittorio Emanuele II. The great-grandsons Aldo and Gastone worked in the business from the early 1930s onwards, making the shop a leader in Italy in sales of Swiss clocks and watches and later adding goldsmithing and jewellery.
Gobbi Milano
In 1842, Raimondo Gobbi, a lover of horology, opened his workshop in Modena. The business was carried on with such competence and commitment that already ten years later, in 1852, the Grand Duke allowed him to boast of the appointment 'Clockmaker to the Royal Court'. At the time, the sales and focus was on pocket watches and pendulum clocks. Raimondo’s youngest son, Giuseppe, helped with his technical skills to develop the firm and in 1896 he moved to Milan, opening a workshop in Corso Vittorio Emanuele II. The great-grandsons Aldo and Gastone worked in the business from the early 1930s onwards, making the shop a leader in Italy in sales of Swiss clocks and watches and later adding goldsmithing and jewellery.