Patek Philippe 3483 Vintage Calatrava
Vintage

Patek Philippe 3483 Vintage Calatrava

By Baron - Mr Red · May 12, 2017 · 31 replies
Baron - Mr Red
WPS member · Patek Philippe forum
31 replies10769 views4 photos
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Baron - Mr Red presents the Patek Philippe Ref. 3483, a vintage Calatrava that embodies the elegance of 1950s and 60s watchmaking. This article delves into the rarity of steel Patek Philippe models from that era and the author's appreciation for each watch's unique character.

To quote from Phillips, "during the 1950s and 1960s, Calatrava style wristwatches became very popular and fashionable. At the time, watches cased in yellow, white gold and platinum were considered more valuable than their stainless steel counterparts. As such, very little were produced (in steel)."

Auction research suggests that about 500 examples of the Reference 3483 were made.

Coming with a mechanical, 27SC calibre, this time only marvel looks and feels bigger on the wrist than its 35mm.





I also love the furniture that came with these vintage Calatravas.



Just so elegant.




My one was purchased two or three years ago now. One could argue that it is somewhat overshadowed by the 570 or 3417, but actually I am trying very hard to get out of direct comparisons between my watches. Each watch has its own personality and style. There are occasions when a stainless steel rarity like a 3483 just cannot be beaten.



As has become obvious over recent years, I have become more and more interested in Patek Philippe. I think their modern offerings are truly interesting in a way that most other manufacturers have lost the plot. I could pick 6 from the current collection that I would love to own. I can't think of any other manufacturer where I feel that....


I think that also applies to vintage. The time only marvels of the 1950s and 1960s are just hard to beat from Patek Philippe. When one considers that the above watch is not that different in price to the Sea-Dweller tribute from Rolex, I know there are still treasures to be found in vintage world.

About the Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 570

The Patek Philippe reference 570 is a classic Calatrava-style dress watch, representing a significant period in the brand's production of time-only pieces. It is distinguished by its clean lines and minimalist aesthetic, embodying the traditional design principles that Patek Philippe is known for in its non-complicated watches. The reference 570 was offered in various metals and dial configurations, making each example unique within the broader series of Patek Philippe's round cased watches from the mid-20th century.

This particular example features an 18k white gold case with a diameter of 38mm. It is fitted with a sapphire crystal, protecting a silver dial. The watch is powered by a manual wind movement, reflecting the common practice for high-end dress watches of its era. The water resistance is rated at 30 meters, typical for a watch of this type and period.

The reference 570 appeals to collectors seeking a pure expression of Patek Philippe's watchmaking heritage, particularly those interested in the brand's foundational dress watch designs. Its various iterations, including different case materials and dial finishes, offer a range of options for discerning collectors. The enduring appeal of the 570 lies in its understated elegance and its representation of a specific era of Patek Philippe's design philosophy.

Specifications

Caliber
27 SC
Case
18k white gold
Diameter
38mm
Dial
Silver
Water Resist.
30m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
SH
sham1
May 12, 2017

Well taken for photos of a beautifully preserved watch! So tell me then, which are the six Pateks in the current collection you would like to own? I am personally partial to the 5959,5950,7000R and 5078G all of which unfortunately are quite unaffordable even after selling most of my body parts

BA
Baron - Mr Red
May 12, 2017

......but off the top of my head: 5178G, 5370P, 5650G, 5131R, 5131P, 5372P.

SH
sham1
May 12, 2017

And as usual we differ on our selection but still I like quite a few of your choices even though they are all a tad too large for me.

SH
sham1
May 12, 2017

I have noticed that I have problems feeling comfortable with a watch measuring 39mm or above when it comes to Patek. I have a 5131R which is a tad too large (and believe me I have tried to psychologically convince myself that it fits fine but it does not). I once put myself on the waiting list of the 5235G but when trying it on, even my AD admitted that it was too large for me. Breguets are the exception to the rule because of the long lugs so a 36mm Breguet would be the largest model I could we

AR
Ares501 - Mr Green
May 12, 2017

Thanks for the answer Best D

SH
sham1
May 12, 2017

38.8mm and a good fit 36mm and the best fit ever on my wrist with the wrap around bracelet 39.4mm but the lugs do stick out a little which is a deal breaker for me. Lovely watch though 37mm and locked in my AD safe awaiting my paying it off over a 11 year period. I love my AD and vice versa I think 34.6mm and this is my daily wear 39mm but Kari said he can oblige with a 37mm case! 39.5mm with curved lugs. Help! I love this watch

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