A Closer Look At The Top 5 Patek Philippe Calatrava Watches Sold At Auction

The Patek Philippe Calatrava series is renowned for its elegant simplicity and technical excellence, explaining its enduring popularity since its release in 1932. Sotheby's has been at the forefront of bringing Patek Philippe watches to auction for decades, including many rare and storied Calatrava examples. Below we delve into the details of the five top-selling pieces, highlighting their provenance, rarity, and distinct features that made them so sought after by collectors.

1. Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 2526 Circa 1952, 5,715,000 HKD

Patek Calatrava — Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 2526

The Patek Philippe Reference 2526 Circa 1952 was sold for 5,715,000 HKD in April 2024. The above model is recognized as Patek Philippe’s first self-winding watch, marking a milestone in the brand’s history. This particular model was made for the esteemed collector J.B. Champion as a symbol of innovation and craftsmanship. The Patek Calatrava watch’s enamel dial, chosen for its resistance to tarnishing, exemplifies Patek Philippe's commitment to aesthetic appeal but also durability.

A limited edition piece, only 3,000 of these movements were produced and only a few examples have resurfaced over the years. The above piece first appeared at auction in 1991 before being acquired by the consigning owner in 1998. The Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 2526 watch’s detailed craftsmanship is evident in the movement’s highly decorated, gold-engraved rotor. The slightly domed dial featured a unique green counter enamel, which set it apart as a prototype of this historic model.

2. Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 2526P Circa 1954, 226,800 CHF

The above Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 2526P circa 1954 was sold for 226,800 CHF in May 2021. The model was another rare and exquisite example from the Calatrava series. This platinum model was distinguished by its diamond-set indexes, a rarity among the Reference 2526 watches. Adding to its rarity, less than 70 Reference 2526 watches were made in platinum and only around 20 featured diamond numerals. The watch's metal dial and its luxurious materials positioned it as one of the rarest and most desirable pieces of the series.

Accompanied by a Patek Philippe presentation case and an Extract from the Archives, this watch exemplifies the brand’s blend of functionality and opulence.

3. Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 2597 Circa 1963, 1,764,000 HKD

Produced in 1963, the above Patek Philippe Calatrava circa 1963 was sold in October 2021 for 1,764,000 HKD. This piece was a rare yellow gold model designed for frequent travelers. This Calatrava featured a push-button mechanism to adjust the time, a function created by the legendary watchmaker Louis Cottier. Cottier was well known for his contributions to Patek Philippe’s world time movements. The two-hand configuration of the Patek Calatrava Reference 2597 was a rare find, especially in such well-preserved condition.

The Antoine Gerlach-designed case served as a testament to the minimalist yet intricate design that Patek Philippe is celebrated for. The flat bezel, gently tapered lugs, and aesthetic elegance made this model a highly coveted piece among sophisticated collectors.

4. Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 570 Circa 1954, 1,386,000 HKD

The Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 570 circa 1954 was sold in April 2022 for 1,386,000 HKD. This example was celebrated for its larger diameter compared to the Patek Calatrava Reference 96, earning it the nickname "Calatravone." This pink gold model was exceptionally well-preserved at time of auction, featuring a warm ivory dial with hard enamel rendered signatures and well-defined scales. The Antoine Gerlach-designed case retained its crisp hallmarks and original condition.

This model’s timeless design, with its large flat bezel and thick lugs, made it a staple in Patek Philippe’s catalog from 1938 until its discontinuation in 1972. The Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 570 watch’s rarity, especially in pink gold, and its impeccable condition, made this a significant piece for collectors who valued both its beauty and historical importance.

5. Patek Philippe Calatrava, Reference 5088/100P-001 Circa 2014, 176,400 USD

The above Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 5088/100P-001 was sold in December 2021 for 176,400 USD. The model was originally part of the 2014 Patek Philippe Rare Handcrafts series in celebration of the brand’s 175th anniversary. This platinum model was distinguished by its champlevé black enamel dial, a representation of the brand’s dedication to rare decorative arts. The watch was also accompanied by an equally rare pair of matching champlevéd enamel white gold cufflinks.

The case and dial’s intricate enamel work, combined with the automatic calibre 240 movement made this watch a masterpiece of craftsmanship. Retailed by Tiffany & Co., the piece was sold with its original packaging and documents as a testament to its significance as a collector’s item. The Patek Calatrava Reference 5088/100P-001 exemplified Patek Philippe’s ability to blend traditional watchmaking techniques with striking contemporary design.

These top-selling Patek Philippe Calatrava watches from Sotheby’s not only represent horological achievement but also carry with them stories of innovation, rarity, and prestige. Each watch, with its unique characteristics and historical significance, offered collectors a chance to own a piece of Patek Philippe’s illustrious legacy.

Source Your Next Patek Philippe Calatrava Luxury Watch

At Sotheby’s our global Patek Philippe specialists regularly bring a range of Patek watches to auction, combined with an extensive selection of handpicked buy-now examples. Whether you are curious about the value of your vintage Patek Philippe Calatrava or would like guidance on a Patek Philippe watch available in one of our auctions, Sotheby's is on hand to support as a trusted partner.