Introduction
Famed for their incredible array of dress watches, Patek Philippe often wows their collectors with some of the most luxurious and best-constructed timepieces that money can buy. Due to their iconic sports watches and immaculate complicated offerings attracting the most attention these days, their understated vintage offerings have gone relatively under the radar. Perhaps a perfect example of this is the Patek Philippe ref. 4459/1 that we have here. Hailing from the 1970s, the ref. 4459/1 features a 27mm x 21mm 18kt white gold cushion-shaped case with an integrated 18kt white gold chain bracelet that boasts a complex woven construction. Boasting a bright and understated silver dial that serves to highlight its unique construction, the ref. 4459/1’s display and construction work is perfect harmony to showcase Patek Philippe’s incredible skill and craftsmanship. Powered by a manual-wind cal. 16-250, the ref. 4459/1 brings to life the genuine vintage look and feel that so many modern timepieces have tried to emulate thanks to the simple fact that it hails from the period from which today’s designers are drawing their inspiration as they chase the sense of horological delight that timepieces like the ref. 4459/1 radiate in abundance.
Loupe This Scorecard
Grade
V 8.5
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Watch Only
Est. value range
$3,000 – $5,000
The Details
Brand
Patek Philippe
Dimensions
27mm x 21mm
Model
Integrated bracelet watch
Movement
Manual-wind cal. 16-250
Reference
4459/1
Bracelet
18kt white gold bracelet
Year
Circa 1980s
Condition
Excellent
Material
18kt white gold
Included
Watch only
Dial Color
Silver
THE DIAL
Boasting a simple silver dial with blackened gold applied stick indices and hands, the ref. 4459/1's display is inherently understated and classical.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Contrasting the understated monochromatic design of its dial, the ref. 4459/1 boasts a wonderfully intricate woven 18kt white gold integrated bracelet that sets this watch apart from other ladies' watches of its time.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
The watch is in overall excellent condition. The white gold case has a number of surface marks and scratches, as expected of a watch of this vintage. The case back retains its vertical brushed finish, and there are partially visible hallmarks on the non-crown side of the case. The watch is fitted with a yellow gold crown that still bears the Patek Philippe logo. The white dial is in excellent condition, with just a few light marks, and the black enamel hands are reasonably clean. The white gold integrated bracelet has some surface scratches and a Patek-signed clasp. The bracelet fits an approximately 6 3/4” wrist. Please note that the watch ticks at time of cataloging, but timekeeping is poor and a service is recommended.
Our Perspective
Understated in its overarching design and yet confident in its execution, the ref. 4459/1 is a wonderful microcosm of vintage Patek Philippe with its simple dial and complex construction.
Justin Gruenberg
Co-founder
