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In the bridge where the repetition of "a" begins in the bass cleff and then continues to b flat I have seen different fingerings...I know Beethoven did use them in his writing for this piece.
I have seen 3-2-1 3-2-1 and I have seen 2-1-2-1-2-1.

Is there a preference... obviously the 2-1 is easier than the 3-2-1

Thank you

On the repeated A, it would be best to switch between 3-2-1, but on the B flat, it's probably better to do 3-2. However, when I play it I'm not consistent with switching fingers every note because I can play it accurately without switching that often and not experience fatigue. It is always best to do whatever feels most comfortable for you. If you can play accurately and without tension build-up or fatigue, then that is the best fingering for you.

i have seen the suggestion of using the same finger on those repeated notes. it's not a fast piece and those repeated notes are not legato, therefore many alternatives would all be ok.

is the purpose of switching fingers to avoid fatigue or is it to produce a different sound since each finger does hace a slightly different pressure

thanks, Ken

in slow tempo, fingerings on repeated notes do not make much difference on sound (unless it requires legato) or avoiding fatigue. but in fast tempo, alternating fingers is just necessary or you cannot play fast at all. it's like doing trills, which you cannot do with 1 finger but with 2 at least because 1 finger just cannot reach certain speed. also, alternating fingers definitely avoids finger fatigue as it distributes work among different fingers.

The purpose of switching fingers is not just for technical considerations. It is easier to control more than one finger dynamically. That is, when using the same finger, the propensity is for that note to get progressively louder. When using multiple fingers this does not happen. That being said, if you are not accustomed to using multiple fingers there is a learning curve to being able to do so. It is just another tool if you will in the pianist's bag of tricks that enables you to be a better musician. Be patient and you will be rewarded.