Patek Philippe Calatrava Steel Blue Dial 3579

This watch is in excellent condition for its age. The dial is slightly peeling between 1 and 2 o'clock.

Watch comes with extract from archives.

While Patek Philippe might be better known for its complications and sports models, the Calatrava was the iconic watch for the brand. Ever since the wristwatch exploded in popularity in the 1930s, Patek Philippe has offered a Calatrava as part of its lineup.

First released in 1932, the collection's name refers to a symbol used by Christian knights during the middle ages. Today, the watch still forms the backbone of Patek Philippe's offerings, and can be seen as the 'purest' essence of the brand. The reference 3579 is an unusual watch, being made from stainless steel and having a tonneau-shaped case. It's a sportier version of the brand's venerable flagship model.

PATEK PHILIPPE

To many, Patek Philippe is the epitome of the high-end watchmaker. Throughout its nearly two centuries' of existence, it has weathered everything from the World Wars to the Quartz Crisis of the 1980s. Even today, it's widely acknowledged to be amongst the most successful and prestigious watchmakers, with its creations gracing wrists of everyone from bankers and politicians to rappers and actors.

Patek Philippe began its life as Patek, Czapek & Cie. in 1839 and made its name by making some of the most accurate watch movements. By the turn of the century, Patek was venturing into the realm of high complications, including split-seconds chronographs, perpetual calendars, and minute repeaters. The latter made it into wristwatch-form in 1924 as a piece unique for Ralph Teetor, the inventor of the cruise control function.

In 1932, the company ownership changed hands to the Stern family, who still run Patek Philippe. In that same year, the Calatrava wristwatch was introduced. By the 1970s, seeing the damage which the Quartz Crisis had done to the industry, Patek Philippe decided to introduce a bold new steel watch. Thus, the Nautilus was born.

Since then, the company has gone from strength to strength, solidifying its reputation as one of the finest Swiss watchmakers. From the highly-desirable stainless steel sports watches, to the famed high complications, down to the "humble" Calatrava, Patek Philippe proves that it can do it all.