Patek Phillippe Ladies Calatrava Complications Moonphase

Patek Philippe has long been known for its complicated watchmaking, but following the stock market crash of 1929, fewer clients had the means to purchase their high-end timepieces. After securing a controlling interest in the firm, Jean and Charles Henri Stern decided to create a simple watch that would come in at a lower price point and appeal to the firm’s clientele. Using the principles espoused by the Bauhaus school and its minimalist, function-first philosophy, Patek conceived the Calatrava, taking its name from the Spanish military order established in the 12th century which had become the symbol of Patek Philippe. Since its debut in 1932, the Calatrava has evolved to include a wide variety of complications, and also expanded to include ladies timepieces. This particular Calatrava is one such model dating back to the late 2000s. Housed in a 31mm 18k white gold case with a sapphire crystal, a signed crown, and a diamond-set bezel, it features a silvered mother of pearl dial with a central guilloche pattern, subsidiary seconds register, moonphase aperture, factory applied diamond indices, and a matching feuille handset. This piece epitomizes what Patek Philippe is most known for — understated elegance and delicate finishing. In other words — everything you need, nothing you don’t. What sets this piece apart, however, is its lovely, whimsical layout of complications. The Calatrava is one of Patek’s most enduring models for a reason!