Calatrava

Why it matters

The Calatrava is Patek Philippe's round dress watch and the benchmark for understated elegance. It is the opposite of the hype-driven Nautilus: a thin, clean, time-only or simple-complication watch that collectors buy to keep, not to flip.

Because it is less hyped, the Calatrava trades far closer to retail than Patek's sports models, and certain references are genuine values within the brand. Reference and dial variant drive the differences; condition and originality matter as with any Patek.

Common questions

What is a Patek Philippe Calatrava?

It is Patek Philippe's classic round dress watch line, known for thin, clean, understated designs. It is widely considered the benchmark dress watch.

Is the Calatrava a good value compared to the Nautilus?

Generally yes. The Calatrava is far less hyped than the Nautilus and trades much closer to retail, which makes certain references some of the better values in Patek's catalog.

Related terms

• Nauty / Naughty

  Patek Philippe Nautilus. The most hyped luxury sports watch of the modern era.

• Aquanaut

  Patek Philippe's sportier, more modern sibling to the Nautilus. Comes in various sizes and complications.

• Dress Watch

  A thin, elegant watch meant for formal occasions. Usually simple dial, leather strap, precious metal case.

• Moon Phase

  A complication displaying the current phase of the moon through a small aperture on the dial.

• Grail Watch(Grail, Holy Grail Watch)

  The ultimate dream watch on a collector's wish list. Subjective and personal to each collector.