The Patek Philippe Reference 1593, introduced in 1944, is indicative the brand’s innovative approach to watch design in the post-war period. Known among collectors as the “Hour Glass” due to its distinctive curved case and flared lugs, this watch reflects the post-Art Deco era’s emphasis on elegant and architectural forms. The case has concave and convex lines that create a dynamic silhouette and is further accentuated by its faceted crystal, which follows the curvature of the case. This crystal distorts the dial when viewed from different angles, creating a variation in shape and proportions that highlights the attention to detail in its construction. This watch is accompanied by its Extract from the Archives, which confirms a production date of 1953 and a sale on April 1, 1954. It is also complete with a Patek Philippe service receipt dated 2007. Produced until 1967, fewer than 1,000 watches were made, in yellow and pink gold, as well as platinum. This Hour Glass has an 18kt. Pink gold case with a 21.75mm width, measured at the center and thinnest part and excluding the original crown, x 41mm, lugs included. The case shows only minimal signs of wear, with the snap-on caseback securely locking onto the case and bearing the Patek Philippe signature and serial numbers. The pyramid-shaped plexiglass crystal is in excellent condition, free from scratches or cracks.

The original silvered uneraseable dial is in an excellent condition, with no patina, discoloration or imperfections, with hand applied solid gold indexes and numbers. Powering the watch is the Patek Philippe Caliber 9-90, a manual-winding movement introduced in 1934 and specifically developed to power the brand’s fancy shaped wristwatches. Measuring 22.5 x 15.5 mm, the 9-90 has a distinctively elongated and curved “tonneau” shape. This design was not a mere aesthetic choice but a technical solution, allowing Patek Philippe to maintain mechanical excellence within the confines of asymmetrical or non-round cases—such as the Reference 1593 with its hourglass silhouette as the 9-90 was engineered to fit seamlessly into narrow, sculptural cases without compromising on precision or reliability. The Caliber 9-90 operates at 18,000 vibrations per hour and has 18 jewels, a straight-line lever escapement, a bimetallic compensation balance, and a Breguet overcoil hairspring. The movement’s bridges are beautifully angled and with Cotés de Geneve, underscoring Patek Philippe’s dedication to hand-finishing and detail, even in non-visible components. The 9-90 remained in production until the early 1960s and is widely regarded as one of the most refined fancy-shape movements of the 20th century. The watch is fitted with an original Patek Philippe crocodile strap, complete with its original 18- karat pink gold Patek Philippe clasp.

Recently serviced in-house, the watch is in good working order. It is offered with a six-month mechanical guarantee and a certificate of originality as well as with its Extract from the Archives. For collectors seeking a timepiece that embodies Patek Philippe’s historical significance and commitment to quality, this “Hour Glass” is a compelling opportunity. International shipping is available via express courier, and inquiries are welcome.