PATEK PHILIPPE CALATRAVA
PATEK PHILIPPE CALATRAVA
The story of the Patek Philippe Calatrava dates back to the late 1920s, when Patek Philippe—then known as Philippe & Cie—faced severe financial challenges. The Great Depression had deeply affected the company, leaving it in urgent need of investment to survive. In 1932, brothers Jean and Charles Stern intervened, acquiring a controlling stake in Patek Philippe and setting the stage for the creation of one of the most iconic timepieces in the history of watchmaking.
To pull the company out of financial uncertainty, the Stern brothers understood they needed to create a more accessible, mainstream model of Patek Philippe–one that would attract a wider audience beyond just high-end collectors–while still upholding the brand’s reputation for exceptional quality, design, and performance.
They hired several skilled Swiss watchmakers, and under their expertise, the Patek Philippe Calatrava was born. The first model, reference 96, marked the beginning of an iconic and immensely successful timepiece that would go on to define the brand's legacy. Before reference 96, Patek Philippe identified each of their watches individually by case number. However, with the introduction of reference 96, the brand introduced the use of a model number, representing a significant shift in how their timepieces were categorized. Furthermore, in 1934, Patek Philippe developed their first in-house watch movement, the calibre 120, specifically for the reference 96.
The Calatrava's minimalist, modern design is what sets it apart. With no unnecessary embellishments, it emphasizes the pure essence of timekeeping, focusing on simplicity and elegance, making it a timeless example of refined design. Throughout its history, several versions of the model have emerged, featuring different case materials, dial layouts, and designs. However, the watch has preserved the same integrity since its creation.
We have several Patek Phillippe Calatravas in stock:
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Pre-owned White Gold Calatrava 3944: features a 33mm white gold case with a white dial and fluted bezel, complete with a date display. Its sleek design is further complemented by a black leather strap. Original Patek Philippe box is included.
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Pre-owned Yellow Gold Calatrava 5107J: features a 37mm yellow gold case with a white dial and smooth bezel, complete with a date display. Its sleek design is further complemented by a black leather strap. Original Patek Philippe box and papers are included.
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Pre-owned Yellow Gold Calatrava 4905j: features a 28mm yellow gold case with a white dial and smooth bezel. Its sleek design is further complemented by a dark tan leather strap. Original Patek Philippe box is included.
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Pre-owned Rose Gold Calatrava 5296r: features a 38mm rose gold case with a white dial and smooth bezel, complete with a date display. Its sleek design is further complemented by a black leather strap. Original Patek Philippe box is included.
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Pre-owned Yellow Gold Calatrava Moonphase 4857J: features a 29mm yellow gold case with a white dial and smooth bezel, complete with a moonphase complication. Its sleek design is further complemented by a dark blue leather strap. Original Patek Philippe box is included.
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Pre-owned Yellow Gold Calatrava Diamond Mother of Pearl (MOP) 4959J: features a 31mm yellow gold case with a Mother of Pearl dial and diamond bezel. Its sleek design is further complemented by a scarlet leather strap. Original Patek Philippe box is included.
Patek Philippe White Gold Calatrava 3944:
Patek Philippe Yellow Gold Calatrava 5107J:
Patek Philippe Yellow Gold Calatrava 4905j:
Patek Philippe Rose Gold Calatrava 5296r:
Patek Philippe Yellow Gold Calatrava Moonphase 4857J:
Patek Philippe Yellow Gold Calatrava Diamond Mother of Pearl (MOP) 4959J:
