Developed as an updated version of the Savoia S.16 for the Regia Aeronautica's maritime patrol squadrons.

To try to improve performance the next variant, the S.59bis had a more powerful 380 kW (510 hp) Isotta Fraschini Asso 500 engine.

In 1928, the Regia Aeronautica flew a spectacular formation cruise of the western Mediterranean with 51 aircraft.

During service, some aircraft were modified with Handley Page leading edge slats on the upper wing.

A company called TAXI AEREI in Argentina used one S.59 bis in 1928 and it was later sold to the Paraguayan government for its Naval Aviation in 1929.