Patek Philippe Calatrava

Overall Condition: Very good condition overall. Unpolished case shows light wear consistent with gentle use. Dial and matching handset are as-new.

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 brands' approaches to classy men’s timepieces. Heavily influenced by the Bauhaus design movement, the Calatrava was then considered extremely modern with its minimalist, ‘less is more’ approach to watch design. In point of fact, it's still considered extremely modern.

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.

The recently released Reference 6119 blends details from many different past Calatravas to splendid effect: The hobnail bezel of the 3919, the case profile of the Reference 96, the indices of the 5196, and a brand new, manually-wound movement designed specifically for this reference with an improved 65-hour power reserve fueled by a double barrel are all present. Housed in a larger 39mm case, it feels like a distinctly contemporary watch inspired by Patek's storied watchmaking past.

This Reference 6119, presented in 18K rose gold, comes with a silver dial that generates a warm hue with interplay from a brown leather Patek Philippe strap with a rose gold pin buckle. This example is also complete with its inner and outer boxes, papers, pamphlets, and a Certificate of Origin dated July, 2021.

With its splendid proportions, handsome case, brand new movement, and excellent looks, the Reference 6119 is surely a future classic. And who wouldn't want to get his hands on one of those?