This is the Patek Philippe Calatrava reference 3428. Founded in 1839, Patek Philippe is a name synonymous with high horology. A company that has always been privately owned, Patek has been manufacturing watches for almost two centuries without interruption. The company is currently owned by the Stern family, whose heritage dates back to when they were supplying dials to Patek in the 1920s.

It’s hard to talk about the reference 3428 without mentioning its predecessor, which is the reference 2526. The reference 2526 is particularly important as it houses the brand’s first ever self-winding caliber - the Cal 12-600AT with an estimated production number of 2500 in various metals.

This particular reference, the 3428, is the successor of the aforementioned 2526. The similarities are apparent with the all-important enamel dial as well as the same case size. The difference, however, is in the upgraded movement caliber with a thinner rotor, Cal. 27-460. This movement was also present in the latest 2526s before the reference was officially changed.

The production numbers of the 3428 were even smaller than the 2526, with an estimated 580 pieces produced over a period of 5 years from 1960-1965, the most common being in yellow gold. Bear in mind that given the limited production period, the 3428 rarely comes to market and when they do, they’re mainly only sold via auction.

As far as Calatravas go, the 3428, whilst mainly unknown, is definitely among the most collectible. While the brand may be famous for their complications and their sports pieces, the 3428 is a reminder of how Patek Philippe can also make time-only piece equally as charming and gorgeous.