Patek Philippe has long been known for its complicated watchmaking, but following the stock market crash of 1929, fewer clients had the means to purchase these high-end timepieces. After securing a controlling interest in the firm, Jean and Charles Henri Stern created a simple watch that would come in at a lower price point and appeal to the firm’s clientele.
Using the principles espoused by the Bauhaus school and its minimalist, function-first philosophy, Patek conceived the Calatrava, taking its name from the Spanish military order established in the 12th century which had become the symbol of Patek Philippe. Since its debut in 1932, the Calatrava has become a byword for a simple, time-only dress watch — even from brands other than Patek itself.
This particular Calatrava, a ladies Reference 4978/400G-001 from circa 2019, is one of the most exquisite references in the collection. Housed in a thoroughly modern 36.5mm 18K white gold case with a sapphire crystal, a signed crown, and a diamond-encrusted bezel and lugs, it features a stunning, diamond-set dial in a snail pattern, applied blued gold ‘Arabic’ indices, and a matching, blued gold ‘feuille’ handset.
Powered by the automatic Patek Philippe Calibre 240 movement with micro-rotor and finished with a sapphire caseback, it comes paired to a signed, blue alligator leather strap with a white gold, diamond-set pin buckle. Set with a total of nearly 400 diamonds and accompanied by its factory goodies, this watch truly is a girl’s best friend!