Patek Philippe Calatrava

The Calatrava has been Patek Philippe’s definitive expression of the round dress watch since the Reference 96 appeared in 1932. More than 80 years later, the Reference 5227R-001 demonstrates how little that fundamental formula needs to change when the proportions are this good.

Crafted from polished 18K rose gold, the case measures a contemporary 39mm in diameter yet remains remarkably slender at just 9.24mm thick. Gently curving lugs extend naturally from the caseband, while the warm metal provides a particularly handsome frame for the lacquered ivory dial.

And what a dial! Applied rose gold trapezoidal hour markers, a discreet dotted minute track, sharply faceted dauphine hands, and a framed date aperture at 3:00 are essentially all that is required. Against the creamy ivory background, the effect is warm, beautifully balanced, and quintessentially Patek Philippe.

The Reference 5227 saves its best trick for the back. What initially appears to be a traditional solid officer-style caseback is actually an exceptionally thin dust cover fitted with a virtually invisible hinge. Pop it open and a sapphire crystal reveals the beautifully finished automatic movement beneath. Earlier examples house Patek Philippe’s Calibre 324 S C, while later production transitioned to the Calibre 26-330 S C. Both represent the manufacture’s sophisticated approach to a seemingly straightforward automatic time-and-date watch.

The watch is paired with a shiny dark chestnut alligator leather strap with square scales and a matching 18K rose gold prong buckle.

This example also comes as an impressively complete set, accompanied by its inner and outer boxes, Certificate of Origin from the 2010s, and associated papers and pamphlets.

The 5227R is Patek Philippe classicism with one wonderfully clever secret. Elegant from the front, mechanically fascinating from the back, and particularly beautiful in the combination of rose gold and ivory, it’s difficult to imagine a more complete expression of the modern Calatrava. Classic Patek Philippe at its absolute best. 

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 two-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.