The introduction of the Patek Philippe ref. 2526 in 1953 marked a defining moment in the history of the Geneva manufacture. Although Patek Philippe had established its reputation through complicated pocket watches and elegant manually wound wristwatches, the ref. 2526 represented an important technological departure, becoming the first model to house the company's inaugural self-winding movement, the calibre 12-600 AT. Developed to the exceptionally high standards associated with Patek Philippe, this movement combined sophisticated automatic winding with the traditional finishing techniques for which the manufacture was renowned. Yet the reference was equally remarkable for its design. Its relatively generous 36mm case, screw-down case back and elegant proportions offered a distinctly modern interpretation of the Calatrava, while its beautiful enamel dial demonstrated the manufacture's commitment to traditional decorative craftsmanship. The result was a watch that combined mechanical innovation with the restrained elegance that had defined Patek Philippe since the introduction of the original Calatrava in 1932.

This example of the ref. 2526J was manufactured in 1954, placing it among the early production watches from this important reference. Crafted in 18K yellow gold, its 36mm case houses the celebrated calibre 12-600 AT, while the off-white enamel dial features applied gold hour markers, matching dauphine hands and a subsidiary seconds register at six o'clock. As a First Series example, it belongs to the earliest generation of enamel dials. Accompanied by a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming its manufacture in 1954, the watch represents one of the most significant milestones in the evolution of the Calatrava and the development of automatic watchmaking at Patek Philippe.

Watch is in overall excellent condition. The 18K yellow gold case shows surface scratches and small nicks, as expected of a watch of this vintage. A hallmark on the back of one lug remains partially legible. The case back shows scratches and surface marks, with a still-legible 18K stamp and a personal engraving. The first-series enamel dial is in near-mint condition, while the hands remain very clean. The dial show no surface cracks of fissures, with some small marks visible upon close examination. Watch comes with a later but genuine Patek 18K yellow gold shovel style pin buckle showing some surface marks. Comes with a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives.

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.