Lot #5300
Patek Philippe Automatic Calatrava 2551J 18K YG with Extract of the Archives
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Introduction
Introduced in 1954, the ref. 2551 occupies an important position in the evolution of Patek Philippe's automatic dress watches. It followed the ref. 2526 and retained the substantial 36mm proportions of that celebrated model, but replaced its enamel dial with a conventional metal dial and adopted a slimmer overall profile. Its stepped concave bezel and sharply defined lugs give the case considerably more architectural character than the simplicity traditionally associated with the Calatrava family, while the screw-down case back reflected Patek Philippe's increasing emphasis on practicality during the period.
More important mechanically was the calibre 12-600 AT, Patek Philippe's first automatic movement and today one of the manufacture's most highly regarded mid-century calibres. This example dates to 1957 and is accompanied by a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives. This example features an expertly made aftermarket display caseback, allowing the owner to admire the beautiful movement.
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Grade
V 8
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Extract from the Archives
Est. value range
$8,000 – $12,000
The Details
Brand
Patek Philippe
Dimensions
36mm
Model
Automatic Calatrava
Movement
Automatic Patek Philippe calibre 12-600 AT
Reference
2551J
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
1957
Condition
Very good
Material
18K Yellow Gold
Included
Extract from the Archives
Dial Color
Silver
THE DIAL
The silver metal dial has developed considerable ageing across its surface, including crazing, areas of degradation and irregular patches. Applied yellow gold hour markers and matching hands retain the restrained character of the original design, while the aged surface gives this example a distinctly individual appearance.
THE CONSTRUCTION
The 36mm 18K yellow gold case combines a stepped concave bezel with strongly defined, bevelled lugs. A glazed display case back is fitted to the watch and is also referenced on the accompanying Extract from the Archives; however, we are unable to establish that the present display back is an original factory component.
TIMING MACHINE READOUT
This reading was taken (crown down) with a ONEOF Accuracy Boutique Edition timing machine at time of cataloging. It is provided as a courtesy only, and shall not be construed as a warranty or guarantee of any kind. Please refer to our terms and conditions of sale for more information.
Condition
Watch is in overall very good condition. The 18K yellow gold case shows a number of surface scratches and nicks. The screw-down display case back shows scratches to the gold surfaces. The caseback is aftermarket and not of original Patek Philippe manufacture. There are no engravings or hallmarks visible on the exterior or interior. The original solid caseback is not included. The dial shows degradation across the surface, while the printed text and crosshair within the small seconds remain well defined. The applied hour markers and hands remain reasonably clean. It is fitted with a black Patek Philippe leather strap and gold-coloured pin buckle. Comes with a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives. (Due to current Patek Philippe archiving standards, the watch cannot be issued a new archive due to the missing original caseback.)
Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.
Our Perspective
The ref. 2551 is compelling because it pairs one of Patek Philippe's most important automatic movements with a case that feels remarkably contemporary for the 1950s. This 1957 example has acquired considerable character through the ageing of its silver dial, while the unusual glazed case back, documented in the Extract but of unconfirmed factory origin in its present form, provides another point of interest in an already significant early automatic Calatrava.
John Reardon
Collectability.com
