Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 1503 - Satin Silver 'Fab Suisse' Dial W/ Box & Extract
The Patek Philippe Calatrava. Arguably the brands most iconic model line, and purest expression of the brand. Their raison d'etre if you will.
The line has been a hit since its debut in 1932. So much so, that the name "Calatrava" itself has become something of a byword within the watch industry for traditionally styled, no-frills dress watches that simply tell the time. Over the course of its nearly 100-years of production, there have been seemingly countless iterations within the line, with variations in the metal they are made in, with their size, dial configurations, and eventually, complications.
The Calatrava that we have here, a Reference 1503, is a not often seen model executed in stainless steel. Dating to 1948, 35mm case features gorgeous 'teardrop' lugs with a 20mm spacing, which lend themselves to a visually pleasing presence and more modern wearing experience on the wrist. It remains in very strong condition overall, with symmetrical lugs, correct finishing, a steel crown, and a snap-back caseback. Inside, the silver dial is also well-preserved, with excellent black 'raised' enamel signature and indices, applied 'pencil' and 'Arabic' indices and a matching 'feuille' handset. It is powered by Patek's Calibre 12-120 manual-winding movement.
Additionally, this piece comes with its leather box and extract from the archives confirming production in 1948.
This lesser-known reference is elevated simplicity at its absolute best — the very essence of the Calatrava. And being stainless steel, rare for any Calatrava, makes this very simple piece a real sleeper.
There are watches, and then there are watches! This is one of the latter.
Condition Report & Details
Condition:
Movement:
Bracelet/Strap:
Shipping, Returns, & Warranty
Every Oliver & Clarke timepiece comes with a one-year mechanical warranty starting from the date of delivery. We ensure all watches are in wonderful working condition and are ready for daily wear. Many have been fully serviced by our team of watchmakers.
Please note:
- Due to the vintage or antique nature of many of our watches, they may not keep time as accurately as when new, nor as precisely as quartz or electronic devices.
- We do not guarantee water resistance and do not warranty against moisture or water damage. Deliberate exposure to water or steam is not recommended.
- Warranty does not cover internal or external damage caused by accidents, mishandling, abuse, modifications, or services performed by anyone other than our authorized personnel.
- Our warranty is non-transferable.
The Oliver & Clarke Guarantee
At Oliver & Clarke, we meticulously vet each watch to ensure its authenticity and quality. Your satisfaction is our top priority, and our mission is to help you find the perfect timepiece. If you have any questions, we are here to assist you promptly.
Our Guarantee:
- Each timepiece is thoroughly evaluated, authenticated, and approved by our expert team before it is offered for sale.
- We guarantee the period-correctness of all components unless otherwise stated.
- The authenticity of each watch is guaranteed in perpetuity.
Choose options
"As collectors themselves, Oliver and Clarke are on a mission to make buying vintage watches as painless as possible."
"The company focuses on good prices for its pieces, elite customer service and full transparency."
"The appointment-only space is inviting, with comfortable seating areas and exposed brick walls."
From Rolex & Patek Philippe, to Cartier & Audemars Piguet. As collectors first, we love the small details that separate the Submariner from Daytona and Calatrava from Royal Oak. This is why you'll find our curated assortment spans decades of generations of models and brands. We believe that watches don't just tell time, they tell history - and life is too short to wear a boring watch.
Oliver & Clarke