Patek Philippe Calatrava

First presented in 1932 with the Reference 96, the Patek Philippe Calatrava is the benchmark for classic men’s dress watches. The groundbreaking reference set the stage for nearly every piece Patek has released since, and became the blueprint for other brand’s approaches to classy men’s timepieces. Heavily influenced by the Bauhaus design philosophy, the Calatrava was then considered extremely modern with its minimalist, less-is-more approach to watch design. 

The Calatrava 96 was also one of the first pieces the brand released after the Stern family purchased a majority share in Patek Philippe in the early 30s. In many respects, the 96 is emblematic of the Stern family’s contributions to Patek. The 96 was one of the earliest round watches Patek ever made, and was also the very first serially produced piece to receive its own reference.

In the years since 1932, Patek has released dozens of Calatrava references, each with its own idiosyncrasies. Almost all share the underlying DNA of the 96, prioritizing subtle elegance above all else. 

This piece, a Reference 5227G-001, is the very image of the elegant Calatrava design, but in a modern silhouette. With a nearly perfect 39mm 18K white gold case and its 9mm case thickness, it’s an incredibly easy-wearing watch. The case features downturned lugs, a polished bezel, a sapphire crystal, a signed crown and an officer-style caseback that when opened, reveals the maison’s Calibre 315 / 190 self-winding movement. 

Furnished with applied white gold indices, a ‘dot’ minute track, a matching dauphine handset and a framed date window at 3 o’clock set against an ivory tone, the dial is an exercise of simplistic beauty. 

Outfitted to a signed black alligator leather strap with an 18K white gold pin buckle, this piece is an exceptional example of the traditional Calatrava design and the maison’s artisanship. 

Simply put, this Calatrava is everything you need, and nothing you don’t.

Founded in 1839, Patek Philippe is one of the oldest watch manufacturers in the world with an uninterrupted watchmaking history. Few international luxury brands carry the gravitas of their name, and for good reason. The firm's commitment to excellence in horological manufacture is unflinching, and their track record of innovation in design without peer. They continue to lead the industry, and even their fiercest competitors have nothing but the utmost respect for the company.

From the simple elegance of their Calatrava line to the stunning study in miniaturization that is reference 1518 perpetual calendar to the modern reference 5750P chiming watch, Patek’s catalog is chock full of some of the most elegant and complicated timepieces ever made. Family-owned and completely independent, the firm has the freedom to do what it wants — such as discontinue one of the world’s most beloved steel luxury sport watches, the reference 5711 — when it wants.

Owning a Patek Philippe is for many the ultimate goal of timepiece collecting, and for a certain type, the only timepieces they collect. Whichever way you look at it, there is no questioning the elegance of design, superlative manufacture of their cases and movements, or the sheer elegance and emotion that comes from owning one.

Of course for a brand that is steeped in heritage, we are told “You never actually own a Patek Philippe…”

Well, you know the rest!

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a one-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.