Patek Philippe Calatrava 2526

Patek Philippe Ref. 2526 An early, well-preserved and very rare yellow gold wristwatch with small seconds, enamel dial and Gay Frères bracelet

Manufacturer : Patek Philippe Year : 1955 Reference No : 2526 Movement No : 762'369 Case No : 689'041 Material : 18K yellow gold Calibre : Automatic, cal. 12-600 AT, 30 jewels Bracelet/Strap : 18K yellow gold Patek Philippe bracelet, max length 180mm Clasp/Buckle : 18K yellow gold Patek Philippe clasp stamped “2.56 Dimensions : 35.5mm diameter Signed : Case, dial, movement, bracelet and clasp signed, bracelet further signed Gay Frères Accessories : Delivered with Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming the bracelet in yellow gold, the date of manufacture of the present timepiece in 1955 and its subsequent date of sale on 15th June 1956- The Patek Philippe reference 2526 holds a significant place in the brand's history as the first self-winding wristwatch crafted by this legendary watchmaker. With a wearable 36mm size that remains appealing today, it is highly sought after by collectors eager to own a piece of Patek Philippe history that can be worn every day. - Featuring the caliber 12-600 AT, this movement is the result of decades of research and development, and it is regarded as one of the most respected automatic movements ever created by any brand. It served as the foundational platform for future movement upgrades and innovations. - The watch boasts an exquisite enamel dial, a daunting creation process characterized by high failure rates, especially in the early first series dials. The dial features flared holes for each numeral, with indentations around the hour markers, while the second series enamel dials lack this detail. - The reference 2526 is also renowned for being fitted with bracelets from the master maker Gay Frères, considered the finest bracelet maker of the past century. This particular watch is accompanied by an Extract confirming the bracelet, and the stamping on the clasp “2 56” indicates it was made in the second trimester of 1956, perfectly aligning with the wristwatch's sale date of June 15, 1956. - In great condition, this reference 2526 is a timeless gem designed to last, and it is poised to become even more collectible in the future.