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The Encyclopedia of Horology

Wristwatch · Tank-style wristwatch

Patek Philippe Reference 439 Astrua Torino

Partially verified

This Patek Philippe reference 439 is a hand-wound wristwatch featuring a square, tank-style 18k rose gold case measuring 25 x 33 mm. The case, attributed by the source to the manufacturer Wenger, is designed with short lugs and a flat snap-back. It is equipped with a black dial that bears a double signature from the Italian retailer Astrua Torino. The watch utilizes the Patek Philippe caliber 9 manual movement. The dial is appointed with sword-style hands and applied hour markers. The watch is currently fitted with a replacement leather strap from Bulang & Sons. According to the auction description, the watch has been serviced by the vendor's watchmaker. The serial numbers provided indicate production dating toward the conclusion of the 1920s.

Front-facing view of the Patek Philippe reference 439 in 18k rose gold with black dial.
Front-facing view of the Patek Philippe reference 439 in 18k rose gold with black dial. — Bulang & Sons. Rights pending — permission not yet requested. Original source

Catalogue identity

Source
www.bulangandsons.com
Category
Wristwatch · Tank-style wristwatch
Maker / attribution
Patek Philippe
Reference
439
Catalogue / lot identifier
Source URL identifies the listing
Source-reported date
End of the 1920s
Source-reported place
Switzerland
Source-reported serial
Case serial 617xxx / Movement serial 195xx

Source-reported attribution and specifications are not independent authentication. A listing does not establish present ownership, current display, availability or permission to reproduce.

Object description

Case and Dial

The timepiece features a square case measuring 25 by 33 mm, identified as a tank-style reference 439. The construction utilizes 18k rose gold and is finished with a flat snap-back case component. The source notes that the case was manufactured by Wenger.

The black-colored dial is distinguished by a double signature reading 'Astrua Torino,' signifying its retail history through the Italian firm. The dial is fitted with sword-shaped hands and features applied hour markers, with the word 'SWISS' printed at the bottom edge.

Evidence for this section
  • “25 x 33 mm 18k rose gold case with snap back, made by “Wenger””
  • “The dial is exceptionally rare in a black execution, elegantly fitted with sword hands and bearing the even rarer double signature of “Astrua Torino””

Movement and Technical Details

Power is provided by a Patek Philippe hand-wound movement, identified as caliber 9. The mechanical operation of the watch is supported by the vendor, who reports that the movement has been serviced.

The watch is assigned a movement serial of 195xx and a case serial of 617xxx. These identification numbers are used by the source to attribute the production to the end of the 1920s.

Evidence for this section
  • “Patek Philippe hand-wound movement cal. 9”
  • “Movement serial 195xx / Case serial 617xxx dating to the end of the 1920s”
  • “Fully serviced by our watchmaker”

Retailer and Historical Context

Astrua was an established watch retailer based in Turin. Founded by Vincenzo Astrua, the business originally operated as an artisan workshop located on Via Barbaroux, focusing on pocket watches, table clocks, and salon pendulums.

The presence of the retailer's signature on the dial is presented as a marker of the collaboration between the watchmaker and the retailer. Such dual signatures were commonly restricted to long-standing business partners.

Evidence for this section
  • “Vincenzo Astrua established an artisan workshop on Via Barbaroux, where pocket watches, table clocks, and salon pendulums were meticulously crafted.”
  • “Astrua would later become an official retailer for Patek Philippe”
  • “A double signature always adds an extra layer of distinction. These markings were only permitted by long-standing collaborators”

Open research questions

  • What are the official Patek Philippe archive records for movement serial 195xx?
  • Does the case internal engraving definitively confirm the Wenger manufacture?

Source evidence

Recorded claims and source quotations for Patek Philippe Reference 439 Astrua Torino
FieldSource-reported valueSource quotation
MakerPatek Philippe“Patek Philippe”
Reference439“Reference 439”
Case Material18k rose gold“crafted in 18k rose gold”
MovementPatek Philippe caliber 9“Patek Philippe hand-wound movement cal. 9”
Case dimensions25 x 33 mm“sized at a charming 25 x 33 mm”
Case makerWenger“made by “Wenger””
Movement serial195xx“Movement serial 195xx”
Case serial617xxx“Case serial 617xxx”

Visible details

  • Black dial with applied hour markers
  • Sword-shaped hour and minute hands
  • Double signature 'Astrua Torino' printed on the dial
  • Small knurled crown on the right side of the case

Research qualifications

  • The attribution of the case manufacturer to Wenger is not verified by external documentation.
  • The exact production date is stated as an approximation ('end of the 1920s').

Photograph identity and source facts were screened before import; rights clearance remains pending.

Consulted source

ساعت مچی Patek Philippe رفرنس 439 با امضای دوگانه Astrua Torino و طلای رزگلد ۱۸ عیار

Reviewed 2026-11-02 · Record b7425b4d2c

Terms in this record

Glossary explanations for terms named in this object’s record.