Lot #5102
Patek Philippe Calatrava 3558J 18K YG Retailed by Tiffany & Co with Extract of the Archives
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Introduction
While the Calatrava is most commonly associated with understated round dress watches, Patek Philippe spent the late 1960s and 1970s experimenting with more contemporary case designs that reflected the changing tastes of the era. References such as the 3558 demonstrated the manufacture's willingness to reinterpret its classic dress watch through bolder geometry while maintaining the refinement, mechanical excellence and restrained elegance that had long defined the Calatrava collection. Produced from 1968 through the early 1980s, the reference 3558 remains one of the most distinctive automatic Calatravas of the period.
Introduced in 1968, the reference 3558J pairs an elegant tonneau-shaped 18K yellow gold case with the celebrated automatic calibre 27-460M, one of Patek Philippe's finest self-winding movements of the twentieth century. Manufactured by Wenger, the screw-back case combines sculptural, prominent lugs with remarkably slim proportions, allowing the watch to wear with both presence and comfort. This example is made especially desirable by its champagne gilt dial bearing the coveted Tiffany & Co. signature, one of the most recognised retailer partnerships in horological history. Double-signed Patek Philippe watches retailed by Tiffany & Co. have long occupied a special place among collectors, combining the prestige of two iconic names with exceptional rarity. Dating from the reference's inaugural year of production and accompanied by its Extract from the Archives, this watch represents an outstanding example of one of Patek Philippe's most distinctive vintage automatic dress watches.
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Grade
V 8
Status
Vetted & Approved
Included
Extract of the Archives
Est. value range
$20,000 – $30,000
The Details
Brand
Patek Philippe
Dimensions
34mm
Model
Calatrava
Movement
Automatic Patek Philippe calibre 27-460M
Reference
3558J
Bracelet
Leather strap
Year
1968
Condition
Very good
Material
18K Yellow Gold
Included
Extract of the Archives
Dial Color
Champagne
THE DIAL
The champagne dial perfectly complements the warmth of the yellow gold case, with applied gold baton hour markers and a discreet date aperture preserving the clean symmetry of the design. The addition of the Tiffany & Co. retailer signature elevates an already elegant dial into one of exceptional collector appeal.
THE CONSTRUCTION
Manufactured by Wenger, the 34mm 18K yellow gold tonneau-shaped case distinguishes the reference 3558 from traditional Calatravas through its sculptural form and prominent faceted lugs. Its screw-back construction provides practical robustness while maintaining the elegant, slim profile that characterises the finest Patek Philippe dress watches of the era.
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 yellow gold case shows surface scratches and a number of more noticeable nicks throughout. The case back bears a personal engraving. The hallmark to the rear of the lug remains legible. The champagne dial retains crisp printing, including the Tiffany & Co. signature, with a few light surface marks. The black finish on the hands has worn away near their centres. Fitted wih brown leather strap with 18k yellow gold pin buckle. Comes with the 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.
Our Perspective
The reference 3558J perfectly captures Patek Philippe's willingness to embrace contemporary design without compromising its enduring principles of elegance and mechanical excellence. Combining one of the manufacture's finest automatic movements with a beautifully sculpted tonneau case is compelling in its own right, but the addition of the coveted Tiffany & Co. signature places this example into an altogether rarer category. As a first-year production watch accompanied by its Extract from the Archives, it represents an exceptional opportunity to acquire one of the most attractive and increasingly sought-after vintage automatic Calatravas.
Eric Ku
Co-founder
