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 takes the form of a ladies’ officer watch — one whose style is reminiscent of the trench watches of the First World War, with long, straight lugs and often, a hinged caseback. A Reference 4860R, it’s housed in a 26mm 18K rose gold case with a sapphire crystal, an ‘onion’ crown, and a polished bezel. It features a handsome, gloss white enamel dial with painted black ‘Breguet’ indices, a matching black ‘Breguet’ handset, and an outer ‘railroad’ minute track.

Powered by the manually winding Patek Philippe Calibre 16-250 movement and paired to a signed, black alligator leather strap with an 18K rose gold pin buckle, this simple but beautiful timepiece is proof that Patek Philippe has earned its place as the best and most respected watchmaker in the world.  

But don’t take our word for it — try it on today!