
Watch-guy.com takes readers on a personal journey with the Patek Philippe Ref. 3417, a legendary antimagnetic timepiece. This review blends a captivating origin story, from a chance supermarket sighting to a successful acquisition, with a detailed exploration of the watch's unique features and historical significance. The author's passion for vintage Patek Philippe shines through, offering valuable insights into this rare reference.
The Patek Philippe Calatrava reference 3417 is notable for its antimagnetic properties, a feature less common in dress watches of its era. It represents a specific technical advancement within the Calatrava line, designed to protect the movement from magnetic fields, which could impair timekeeping accuracy. This focus on functional resilience distinguishes it from other Calatrava models primarily known for their aesthetic simplicity. The reference was produced in limited quantities, contributing to its specialized appeal.
This reference typically features a 33 mm case, often in stainless steel, though examples in yellow gold are also known. It houses the manual-winding caliber 23-300 PM, a movement specifically engineered with antimagnetic components. The PM designation indicates "Protection Magnétique." The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal and offers a water resistance of 25 meters. The power reserve for this caliber is approximately 44 hours.
The 3417 appeals to collectors interested in Patek Philippe's technical innovations and the brand's response to specific horological challenges. Its antimagnetic construction places it in a distinct category, offering a blend of classic Calatrava design with a practical, albeit subtle, complication. Variants exist with different dial configurations, including those with radium luminous material, further diversifying its collector interest.
Just a few weeks ago I had the opportunity to see a nearly as new example of this reference.... Really awesome and adorable!
Anyway, as you mentioned it rightly, the 3417 is one of these legendary amagnetic watches you quoted. A must have. And yours is wonderful. Great review, my friend. Best, and thanks. Nicolas
my reference is M Stangas book. He uses oersted rather than gauss but the conversion is 1:1 J
I need one of those bracelets.
I hope Patek will one day re-introduce the Antimagnetic Calatrava with a modern manual winding movement and SS case. That would be something. Best, Kari
Interesting to learn there were a radium dial for a Antimagnetic watch!? We saw many paradoxes through time... Shield from magnetism but radioactive...! Best Blomman
This thread is active on the Patek Philippe forum with 28 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.
Join the Discussion →