Patek Philippe Calatrava

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 these 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, the maison 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 become a byword for a simple, time-only dress watch — even from brands other than Patek itself. This particular Calatrava, a Reference 570G, dates to circa 1960s. Housed in a 35mm 18K white gold case with a signed crown, acrylic crystal, and a smooth bezel, it features a lovely non-luminous satin silver dial with applied, polished indices and a matching ‘dauphine’ handset. Powered by the hand-wound Patek Philippe Calibre 27SC movement, this gorgeous dress watch comes paired to a black Jean Rousseau alligator leather strap and pin buckle. With its well proportioned case and dial; simple, timeless design; and unobtrusive profile, it’s a perfect elevated choice for someone whose taste runs classic. Plus, this example is in startlingly clean condition for its age. Hard to beat quality vintage!