Pre-Owned Patek Philippe by Analog Shift Patek Philippe Calatrava 40930077/AS05747

Why We Love It 

Patek Philippe has long been known for its complicated watchmaking, but following the stock market crash of 1929, fewer clients had the means to purchase these high-end timepieces. After securing a controlling interest in the firm, Jean and Charles Henri Stern decided to enlist the help of an English designer named David Penney to create a simple watch that would come in at a lower price point and appeal to the firm’s clientele. 

Using the principles espoused by the Bauhaus school and its minimalist, function-first philosophy, Penney conceived the Calatrava, taking its name from the Spanish military order established in the 12th century which had become the symbol of Patek Philippe. Since its debut in 1932, the Calatrava has become a byword for a simple, time-only dress watch — even from brands other than Patek itself.

This particular Calatrava, a reference 3919R, features a 33mm rose gold case; a gorgeous gloss white dial with painted Roman indices and matching feuille handse; a sub-seconds dial at 6 o’clock; a unique “hobnail” bezel; a signed 18K rose gold crown; and the manually-wound Patek Philippe Calibre 215 movement. With its included black alligator leather strap with signed gold pin buckle, it makes for the perfect watch to pair with a suit at the office or with elegant evening wear. It also comes with its books and certificate of origin confirming delivery to Cortina Watch Centre HK Ltd, Hong Kong and sale in 1999.

Sure, you could get yourself a modern dress watch that tells the time just fine — and that probably ends up in a drawer after a while. But a real Calatrava from the world’s greatest watchmaker is forever. 

The Patek Philippe Story

Patek Philippe.

Founded in 1839, Patek Philippe is one of the oldest watch manufacturers in the world with an uninterrupted watchmaking history. Few luxury brands in the world 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.

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.