Patek Philippe Calatrava Japan Only ref. 3579

This 33mm Steel Patek Philippe Calatrava ref. 3579 is in exceptional condition comes as an over complete ‘Collector set’. The Ref. 3579 combines both contemporary and 70-ies design elements, from its steel cushion-shaped case to the super cool blue sunburst dial. It’s obvious the older and much rarer cousin of the Nautilus and the Aquanaut.

The more than 50-year-old steel 33mm and 38mm lug to lug case of this Patek is, as you can see on our pictures, in amazing condition. It breaths class and a distinguished style.

This Ref. 3579 is part of a very limited edition for only the Japanese market and were produced between 1969 and 1974. A rough estimate of the Patek collector's community says more or less 200 3579’s having left the manufacture, only 50 pieces would wear a blue dial. As we know from Patek, this estimate hasn't been officially confirmed.

With a case size of 33mm, the watch wears at least 2mm larger than its dimensions would suggest, because of the 38mm lug to lug cushion-shaped case.

The bleu croco strap (Molequin) is fitted with the original steel Patek Philippe buckle, which is unique, because normally the original buckle is lost after 50+ year.

The minimalistic dial is in perfect condition and gives an attractive contrast against the lighter case. The applied silver hour indexes are finished with a polish with multiple facets. The "Patek Philippe Genève" logo has subtle serif details, which is a typical distinctive vintage aesthetic. In particular, the accent on the "è" of "Genève" is a feature most attributed to the Patek’s earlier pieces.

This 3579 wears the Calibre 23-300, this movement was produced between 1956 and 1975. The movement of this Patek is recently fully serviced and runs very good. This high quality calibre has a compact size, because of that it was used for many Calatrava and Ellipse models. This movement beats at 21,600 vibrations per hour and has an overcoil hairspring and a free-sprung Gyromax balance.

The watch comes with:

-The Japanese “Registered Guarantee Card” stamped 1 May 1982 at the Patek Philippe service center in Tokyo.
-The Patek Philippe “Certificat D’origine et de garantie” confirming the movement number en reference number.
-The Patek Philippe Service Record (in japanese script).
-The Patek Philippe Service Center registration certificate (in japanese script).
-The Patek Philippe tag.
-The Patek Philippe storage and documentation folder.
-The Patek Philippe inner- and outer box.

The distinguished 3579 is a great example of “less is more”, we think it’s an over complete, vintage, sporty and elegant watch for casual or chic moments, for a still relatively affordable price.

Viewings can be arranged by appointment only, in our cozy showroom surrounded by more than 70 beautiful classic cars (Bentley, Ferrari, Lamborghini, Porsche, Rolls Royce, and many more) at the Cool Classic Club in Naarden, The Netherlands (15 minutes from Amsterdam).