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, 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 become a byword for a simple, time-only dress watch — even from brands other than Patek itself. This particular Calatrava, a Reference 5117G-001, dates to circa the 2005 and features an 18K white gold case with crown guards, a cloud de Paris bezel, a signed crown, and a gorgeous white dial with painted Roman indices. Powered by Patek Philippe's Calibre 315 automatic-winding movement, this extremely versatile 37mm case comes fitted to a black alligator leather strap with a signed white gold pin buckle and is accompanied by its certificate of origin dated 2005. We're not saying there's such a thing as a "sure thing" in watch collecting, but if you want this watch half as much as we do, don't hesitate to make a move, it won't last!