Patek Philippe Calatrava ref. 1503, Satin Silver 'Fab Suisse' Dial

Dealer description — Oliver & Clarke

The Patek Philippe Calatrava. Arguably the brands most iconic model line, and purest expression of the brand. Their raison d'etre if you will. The line has been a hit since its debut in 1932. So much so, that the name "Calatrava" itself has become something of a byword within the watch industry for traditionally styled, no-frills dress watches that simply tell the time. Over the course of its nearly 100-years of production, there have been seemingly countless iterations within the line, with variations in the metal they are made in, with their size, dial configurations, and eventually, complications. The Calatrava that we have here, a Reference 1503, is a not often seen model executed in stainless steel. Dating to 1948, 35mm case features gorgeous 'teardrop' lugs with a 20mm spacing, which lend themselves to a visually pleasing presence and more modern wearing experience on the wrist. It remains in very strong condition overall, with symmetrical lugs, correct finishing, a steel crown, and a snap-back caseback. Inside, the silver dial is also well-preserved, with excellent black 'raised' enamel signature and indices, applied 'pencil' and 'Arabic' indices and a matching 'feuille' handset. It is powered by Patek's Calibre 12-120 manual-winding movement. Additionally, this piece comes with its leather box and extract from the archives confirming production in 1948. This lesser-known reference is elevated simplicity at its absolute best — the very essence of the Calatrava. And being stainless steel, rare for any Calatrava, makes this very simple piece a real sleeper. There are watches, and then there are watches! This is one of the latter.