'You never actually own a Patek Philippe. You merely look after it for the next generation.’ — Patek Philippe started this now ubiquitous marketing campaign in 1966 and never looked back, though they already had an outstanding legacy since the watchmaker was founded in the year 1839. Patek built its reputation on several foundational pillars: tradition, innovation, and excellence, all of which are paramount in every timepiece they make, both old and new. 

Introduced in 1969 and produced for a brief five-year period until it was discontinued in 1974, the Patek Philippe Calatrava ref. 3579-1 isn't just a beautiful timepiece, but represents Patek’s exploration beyond their traditional design language at the time, experimenting with a new style of watchmaking, sports watches. Made from stainless steel—a rare choice for Patek, particularly in the pre-Nautilus era—the ref. 3579-1 stands as a foundational model that helped pave the way for other steel watches in Patek’s lineup and in many ways the precursor to the iconic Nautilus, which was released just two years after its discontinuance. Allegedly, the ref. 3579-1 was actually produced for the Japanese market, which saw an uptick in interest for Patek Philippe at the time, however only about 200 pieces were made, likely due to its obscure design for the brand at the time. 

This specific example is especially special as it features the even more elusive blue dial and comes as a collector set with the original boxes, accessories, and the original sales receipt - a quality seldom seen for this model.

SPECS

CASE & BRACELET

The modestly sized and thin stainless steel cushion-shaped case features an appealing mix of polished and brushed finishes, making for an elegant, yet unique overall design. The case remains in excellent overall condition showing evidence of light previous polishing in the past with honest signs of gentle use present. The case retains its original crown signed with the Patek Phillipe cross. The screw-down case back is in wonderful condition with no notable wear present. The watch comes supplied on a newer black alligator Patek Philippe "cousu main" 2pc leather strap, with the original unsigned Patek Philippe tang buckle. The watch also comes its the original Patek Philippe strap as well.

DIAL & HANDS

The beautifully preserved and charmingly aged blue sunburst dial has developed a subtle but tasteful gold speckling evenly throughout the dial, with no damage or unattractive elements of age present. The brushed steel inner retaining ring adds a welcomed depth to the watch and remains in excellent condition. The steel markers and hands both remain in remarkable condition as well.

ACCESSORIES 

The watch comes with its original inner coffin box and outer box, the serialized hang tag, the original sales receipt, an appraisal from the original jeweler, and the original strap. The watch is keeping time and operating perfectly, service history is unknown.