Why This Watch Matters There is nothing more beautiful, timeless, or elegant than a vintage Patek Calatrava. This particular 2508 is elevated further by its rose gold color - rarer than even steel - and fantastic original condition. This is a true connoisseur's timepiece, dating to the very heyday of Patek Philippe. The Full Story The reference 2508 is noted not only for its well-balanced case and dial, but also, most importantly, for its waterproof case from Borgel (at the time known as Taubert). The unusual thing about the 2508 is that it was intended as a dress watch, so the combination of the waterproof case with the elegant design was a sort of a juxtaposition pretty unique for Patek, besides its iconic chronograph reference 1463. The 35 mm case of the 2508 actually wears big, even larger than the other waterproof Calatrava of the time, the reference 565. The dial is perfectly balanced with faceted dot and dagger indexes, and dauphine hands. The watch is powered by the 27SC manual-winding movement, famous for its center seconds function, indicated here by the blued seconds hand. This Patek is truly a world-class watch offset even further by its historical importance and extreme rarity in rose gold. If you would like to read more in-depth history about this watch, you can see our Journal here. The Fine Print Maker: Patek PhilippeModel: CalatravaReference: Ref. 2508Year: Circa 1955Case No: 676XXXMvt. No: 702XXXMaterial: Rose GoldDimensions: 35 mm diameter, 11 mm thicknessSapphire Crystal: NoLume: NoCaliber: Manual-winding 27SC movementBracelet/Strap: Patek Philippe Crocodile Strap with unsigned buckleLug Width: 18 mmBox/Papers: No What we Love and What You Should Know Overall this watch is in very good and honest condition. The case does not show extensive signs of polishing, as evidenced by slight oxidation on the case. The case back has been opened recently so we do not recommend swimming with this watch, even though it is technically a waterproof case. The dial is gorgeous with minimal spotting around the edges, and some almost invisible spotting at the left of the Patek Philippe script. The indexes and hands are also in very good shape. This watch overall is a fantastic piece.
