Five Rare Patek Philippe Calatrava Models from the Sotheby's Archive

T he Patek Philippe Calatrava series is renowned for its elegant simplicity and technical excellence, explaining its enduring popularity since its release in 1932. Among the many Calatrava examples Sotheby's specialists have brought to market, there have been a number of rare and remarkables models that have captivated collectors. Join as we explore five standout examples, highlighting their unique features, provenance, and craftsmanship.

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

This Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 5088/100P-001 was sold in December 2021 for 176,400 USD.

This 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 made this watch a masterpiece of craftsmanship. Retailed by Tiffany & Co., Sotheby's sold this piece with its original packaging and documents, further enhancing its collector's appeal. The Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 5088/100P-001 exemplified Patek Philippe’s ability to blend traditional watchmaking techniques with striking contemporary design.

Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 3998P, Circa 2002, 139,700 CHF

This Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 3998P was sold for 139,700 CHF in November 2023.

This Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 3998P, encased in platinum, was an extraordinary creation featuring Egyptian hieroglyphs on its dial. This specific piece first appeared in the public market in 2014 and remains a rare and possibly unique example. Prior to this, no Patek Philippe model with hieroglyph dials was known, making this watch a significant find. The hieroglyph inscriptions spell out SAUD at 6 o'clock and AL TANI at 12 o'clock, adding a deeply personal touch.

The watch's provenance traces back to a Scandinavian family, who received it as a gift directly from Sheikh Saud bin Mohammed Al-Thani, a Qatari prince and noted art collector. Al-Thani, who owned the famous Patek Philippe Henry Graves Supercomplication, was known for commissioning highly personalized watches. This further underscored the uniqueness of this timepiece. The Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 3998P is a tribute not only to the brand’s craftsmanship but also to the prince's discerning taste and significant contributions to art and horology.

Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 5089, Circa 2016, 1,168,400 HKD

This Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 5089 was sold for 1,168,400 HKD in October 2023.

The Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 5089 was a stunning white gold model, produced in limited numbers to commemorate the brand's 175th anniversary. Its dial was crafted using the intricate technique of wood marquetry and depicted a scenic view of Lake Geneva, inspired by a vintage postcard. The meticulous craftsmanship involved in creating this dial was a testament to the brand’s dedication to the preservation of traditional handcrafts. Various species of wood were cut and assembled to form a vibrant, lifelike image on a solid gold plate.

The hinged back of the watch was engraved with 175 Anniversaire 1839-2014, marking it as a personalized and commemorative item. When opened, the back reveals the watch's movement, further enhancing its allure for collectors. As part of the Rare Handcrafts series, this reference was not only a celebration of the rich history of Patek Philippe, but also a symbol of the brand's commitment to artistry and innovation.

Patek Philippe Calatrava Rare Handcrafts Reference 5177G-017, Circa 2021, 119,700 CHF

This Patek Philippe Calatrava Rare Handcrafts Reference 5177G-017 was sold for 119,700 CHF in November 2022.

The Calatrava Rare Handcrafts Reference 5177G-017 exemplified the role of Patek Philippe as a guardian of Geneva’s ancestral horological traditions. Featuring a blue guilloché and cloisonné enamel dial, this model showcased the fusion of ancient craftsmanship with contemporary inspiration. The delicate enamel work and intricate guilloché patterns created a striking visual effect, embodying the elegance and precision that defines Patek Philippe.

Produced in 2021, this piece was accompanied by a Rare Handcrafts certificate, further highlighting its status as an artisanal masterpiece. The preservation of these techniques, cultivated across generations, ensured that such exceptional creations continue to bring joy to collectors and enthusiasts alike. This reference represents the brand’s ongoing commitment to safeguarding the future of these rare handcrafts.

Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 6007, Circa 2019, 630,000 HKD

This Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 6007 was sold in April 2021 for 630,000 HKD.

Introduced in 2019 to commemorate the completion of the new Patek Philippe manufacture in Geneva, the limited-edition Calatrava Reference 6007 was a striking example of modern innovation meeting traditional craftsmanship. Encased in stainless steel, this Patek Philippe Calatrava watch featured a dynamic grey-blue dial with an embossed carbon pattern, inspired by the finishing found on carbon fiber. The luminous hour markers and hands added a contemporary touch to the watch, making it stand out from the typical Patek Philippe Calatrava designs.

Limited to just 1,000 pieces, the Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 6007 was an immediate success among collectors. Its unique dial design, paired with its historical significance, made this watch a symbol of change for Patek Philippe—a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. This fine example included its original accessories, further enhancing the strong collector interest we saw.

Each of these rare Patek Philippe Calatrava models embodies the brand’s craftsmanship, heritage, and commitment to horological artistry. This selection is simply a snapshot of the many Patek Philippe Calatrava our clients have trusted us with bringing to market. From the unique hieroglyphic dials of the Reference 3998P to the commemorative Reference 6007, these watches are not only symbols of Patek Philippe's technical mastery but also reflections of the personal stories and histories intertwined with their creation.

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At Sotheby’s our Patek Philippe experts have brought a wide range of extraordinary examples to market, making us well placed to advise on the sale of an Patek Philippe watch or for those looking to add a watch to their collection. Work with Sotheby's Patek Philippe specialists and in doing so be part of our community of passionate watch enthusiasts and collectors.