Patek Philippe Calatrava 2508J, 18k yellow gold (c. 1956)

A stunning example of one of the first "water-resistant" Calatravas. This extremely rare watch elegantly balances classical aesthetics with practical sportiness, a forward-thinking contrast for  dress watches of the 1950’s. Measuring in at a 35mm case diameter, and 10mm thick, the watch presents itself brilliantly in both formal and casual settings. 

Featuring a central sweeping seconds hand (as opposed to a seconds sub-dial seen in many Calatravas), and a creamy linen-like textured dial, this watch is simple, minimal, and pleasantly refined. Anchored by gold applied hour markers, and the outer dial decorated with sunken silver-colored minute markers, this watch is a brilliant example of perfectly balanced design, and an overall standard of excellence which has been Patek Philippe’s hallmark through the generations. 

The watch comes with a brown Patek Philippe alligator strap, adorned with a gold buckle. To complete the package is a branded Patek Philippe box and case as well as an extract from the Patek Philippe archives, dating the production of the watch to 1956 with a documented sale date of the same year. 

CONDITION & SPECS

The watch is in fantastic condition with an original factory dial that is essentially flawless, free of any blemishing, and no indications of refinishing - a level of condition seldom found in these watches. The watch keeps its rich brushed grain, still present on the side of the gold case, along with with its crisp gold hallmarks. Worth noting is that there is a small scratch on the upper left lug (as can be seen in the pictures).

The movement has just gone through a full over-haul, and is running great.