VIDEO: Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 2526J
One Minute Watch with John Carter
Pre-Owned Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 2526J
Considered by many collectors as the finest time-only watch produced by Patek Philippe, the Ref. 2526J is a stunning vintage timepiece that represents Patek Philippe’s foray into self-winding timepieces. The 36mm 18k yellow gold case houses the first self-winding movement developed in-house by Patek Philippe – the Ref. 12-600AT. The movement is decorated with refined beveled edges, wide Geneva striping and a masterfully finished rotor with an engine-turned motif with a “PP” crest in the center. The quality of the movement is one reason the 2526J is so special, but it is not the only reason…
Arguably the finest time-only watch ever produced by Patek Philippe, the Ref. 2526J is a very special timepiece with its innovative movement and stunning enamel dial.
The 36mm yellow gold case houses Patek Philippe’s first in-house self-winding movement, the Caliber 12-600 AT. Decorated with refined beveled edges, wide Geneva striping and an engine-turned 18k gold rotor, the 12-600 AT remains a benchmark and is often touted as the finest self-winding caliber ever made.
This model also features a highly-sought after twice-baked enamel dial with a lovely eggshell color. The dial remains clean and legible with elegant dauphine hands, a sub seconds dial and lapped markers that are riveted to the dial.
While these enamel dials are beautiful and will not discolor over time, they are sensitive to shock and can crack easily. Roughly 500-600 of these enamel dials were produced during the entire production run from 1953-1960, making the condition of this example truly exceptional.
See more details on this pre-owned 1954 Patek Philippe Calatrava (Ref. 2526J)
