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Lot Essay
With Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch with silvered dial and raised hour markers in steel in 1938 and its subsequent sale on 16 November 1938. Furthermore delivered with an original fitted brown presentation box.
Fresh to the market, this watch is believed to be one of only 13 examples of this reference in stainless steel known to date.
This large Calatrava is offered for sale by the family of the original owner and is understood to have spent its entire life in the accompanying Patek Philippe box in a safety deposit box. Consequently, it is in absolutely pristine condition without any signs of wear or restoration. As a matter of fact, the satin finish is perfect and the winding crown, also decorated with a concentric satin brush, is impressively sharp. The very few minor surface spots on the dial are the result of the elements and add to its gorgeous pre-WW II look. Indeed, the dial design is a perfect 1930s example, highlighted by the attractive two-tone scheme and the unusual number layout.
Not only are references 530 in steel very rare finds but examples in such condition are gems for any discerning collector.
Reference 503
This watch bears a reference number, 530, usually reserved for the renowned oversized chronograph wristwatch, introduced into the market in 1938. However, research resulted in the discovery of the fact that reference 530 was used not just for the chronograph but also for a plain model without any complications. Whereas the present watch very much resembles a traditional reference 570, close examination shows differences in case proportions such as a larger diameter of 36.5 mm.
Fresh to the market, this watch is believed to be one of only 13 examples of this reference in stainless steel known to date.
This large Calatrava is offered for sale by the family of the original owner and is understood to have spent its entire life in the accompanying Patek Philippe box in a safety deposit box. Consequently, it is in absolutely pristine condition without any signs of wear or restoration. As a matter of fact, the satin finish is perfect and the winding crown, also decorated with a concentric satin brush, is impressively sharp. The very few minor surface spots on the dial are the result of the elements and add to its gorgeous pre-WW II look. Indeed, the dial design is a perfect 1930s example, highlighted by the attractive two-tone scheme and the unusual number layout.
Not only are references 530 in steel very rare finds but examples in such condition are gems for any discerning collector.
Reference 503
This watch bears a reference number, 530, usually reserved for the renowned oversized chronograph wristwatch, introduced into the market in 1938. However, research resulted in the discovery of the fact that reference 530 was used not just for the chronograph but also for a plain model without any complications. Whereas the present watch very much resembles a traditional reference 570, close examination shows differences in case proportions such as a larger diameter of 36.5 mm.