Pre-Owned Patek Philippe Calatrava Watches
Following the 'less is more' school of thought from the German Bauhaus movement, the Patek Philippe Calatrava is the flagship design for the modern era of Patek Philippe, and was the first to be created under the ownership of the Stern family. The logo and name comes from a twelfth century Spanish Order.
Patek Philippe Calatrava Watches
The Patek Philippe Calatrava collection stands out in the realm of luxury watches, epitomising timeless elegance and superior craftsmanship. Whether worn with black-tie or simply to elevate your daily look, the Calatrava’s refined yet minimalist aesthetic is hard to beat and is the reason for its enduring appeal.
Introduced in 1932 shortly after the company had been purchased by the Stern family, the Calatrava provided a much-needed hit for the brand, which was facing financial trouble, exacerbated by the Wall Street crash and its lingering aftermath. It was notable for its pared-down style, famously influenced by the German Bauhaus design movement whose philosophy decreed that form should always follow function.
This pared-down aesthetic set the Patek Philippe Calatrava collection apart from the very beginning. As with most versions today, the watches featured clean dials with minimalist hour markers and sleek hands. The elegant, slim cases, usually paired with a fine leather strap, further enhanced the overall aesthetic.
The earliest models were all manually wound, and it wasn’t until 1953 with the Reference 2526 that a Calatrava finally came equipped with an automatic movement. Contemporary models run on both types of mechanical movements, while Patek Philippe even flirted with battery-powered models during the quartz era.
As for the Calatrava name, it references Patek Philippe’s logo, an elaborate cross used by an ancient order of knights founded in Spain in the middle ages.
Every Calatrava timepiece is a testament to Patek Philippe's dedication to excellence, with each detail crafted meticulously by skilled artisans. From the intricate movements to the exquisite finishing, the Patek Calatrava collection represents the pinnacle of precision and quality.
Since the first-generation Reference 96, there have been many notable Calatrava models. Several stand-out versions, such as the Reference 3919, come with the distinctive clous de Paris “hobnail” bezel and a dial featuring Roman numerals, while some models have even added a subtle date window at 3 o’clock.
The Calatrava Pilot Travel Time in white or rose gold even features an additional time zone and bold Arabic numerals—proof that Patek Philippe is willing to make a larger Calatrava with a less dressy, more utilitarian look.
Contemporary Calatrava models are made from precious metal, with a few exceptions, but there are numerous early vintage models made from stainless steel, many of which are now hugely collectable.
It's no wonder that this iconic watch has found its way onto the wrists of numerous celebrities, amplifying its reputation. Famous wearers include everyone from Brad Pitt to Andy Warhol, as well as global leaders, CEOs and Middle Eastern royalty.
Choosing a Patek Philippe Calatrava places you in a league of discerning watch collectors who appreciate life's finer things. It’s a statement timepiece whose superb quality means that it is frequently purchased as a family heirloom, treasured through generations.
We offer a wide range of pre-owned Patek Philippe Calatrava models that showcase the brand's commitment to high-end elegance. Whether you’re a seasoned watch collector or a first-time buyer, we’ll undoubtedly have a Calatrava timepiece in our extensive selection that will suit your taste.
