Size matters too in the world of vintage watches. Nicknamed the “Calatravone” (large Calatrava in Italian), the reference 570 is a favourite among vintage Patek Philippe collectors. It comes with a case size of 35mm in diameter and is a larger version of the renowned reference 96 (30.5mm in diameter), the original Patek Philippe Calatrava. While the reference 570 was deemed a large watch at the time it was introduced to the market, it is now considered a dress watch with the perfect size and proportion for a modern connoisseur.

The iconic reference 570 was in production from 1938 to 1972 for more than 3 decades, during an era when the concept of a wristwatch was still relatively new. Its design was influenced by Bauhaus aesthetics which celebrated functionality. During its long production years through various alterations, encased mostly in yellow gold and rarely in white gold, pink gold, stainless steel, or platinum paired with a wide range of dial designs, its essence of elegant simplicity was cemented as the soul of the Calatrava collection.

The present watch is a rare white gold example which houses the in-house manual calibre 27 SC (Seconde au Centre) from the 2nd series, that began production in circa 1950, and is a modification of the original calibre 12 Sci with the added sweep seconds mechanism by Victorin Piguet. Inside the three-part case uniting the simple lugs, flat bezel, round case and caseback, it features a dazzling silver sunburst dial beneath the white gold applied baton indexes, baton hands and exquisite hand-crafted pearl hour markers.

Born in the year of 1963, the present watch is preserved in exceptional condition, and is accompanied by a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives. Despite its 60 years of age, the black enamel signature, including the accent on ‘Genève’, remains raised on the dial, and the silver sunburst finish has retained its gleaming glamour. This beautiful watch has undoubtedly exemplified the enchantment of the reference 570 as an epitome of simplicity and quiet elegance, an irreplaceable classic in the history of the Patek Philippe Calatrava.