Patek Philippe Ref. 490/1: A 1937 Dream Watch with Caliber 9'''90

quattro · 2025-06-15T20:10:50Z

Explore the Patek Philippe Ref. 490/1 from 1937, a vintage dream watch with a 9'''90 caliber. Discover its rarity, design, and collector insights.

Emmanuel, known as quattro on WatchProSite, shares his profound admiration for the Patek Philippe Ref. 490/1 from 1937. His post highlights the watch's aesthetic appeal and historical significance, making a compelling case for why this particular vintage reference, powered by the 9'''90 caliber, stands out as a true 'dream watch' for collectors. Emmanuel's detailed account and accompanying images provide a rich context for understanding the allure of such a rare and elegant timepiece.

When I saw, this afternoon, this Patek Philippe ref. 490/1 from 1937 powered by a 9’’’90 calibre, I gasped.

My chances of ever acquiring a ref. 5105P (dedicated thread here) being very slim, I would be more than delighted to acquire such a ref. 490/1 someday.

It was sold for a ridiculously low price last February (see here), but I was unfortunately not aware at all of this sale.

A true dream watch for me (even though it's a steel case). Achingly beautiful and meaningful.

Dimensions: 22 x 43 mm

Best, Emmanuel

PS: a similar reference was sold by Antiquorum in 2004, by Phillips in 2017 and by Christie's in 2019.

credit: watch collecting

Key Points from the Discussion

When considering vintage Patek Philippe watches with shaped cases, such as the Ref. 490, 425, 1593, or 2468 (all equipped with the 9-90 caliber), the originality and unrestored condition of the watch are paramount. Collectors should exercise caution if a nearly 100-year-old watch appears to be in 'brand new' condition.

The Discussion

patrick_y

Jun 15, 2025

I hope you get your dream watch!!!

quattro

Jun 16, 2025

I hope too... 🍀🤞🏼 Best, Emmanuel

quattro

Jun 16, 2025

It's a "visceral response" indeed: very well said. Best, Emmanuel

GLau

Jun 16, 2025

shaped watches ! Great find and best of luck in hunting for this piece !

Mike H

Jun 16, 2025

...but I would have double checked before pulling the trigger. I absolutely love vintage shaped cases like this ref 490 but also 425, 1593 or 2468 (and many others all equipped with the 9-90 caliber) but for vintage original condition (not restored) is key for me and when a 100 years old watch looks brand new I have learned to be cautious...

KMII

Jun 17, 2025

Hope you find yours one day 🤞🏻

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Patek Philippe Ref. 490/1: A 1937 Dream Watch with Caliber 9'''90

Key Points from the Discussion

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