Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 3484J, White Gold Wristwatch circa 1970s

Every single one of the iconic designs Patek has produced over its staggering 184 years in business shares a mystique and air of significance that’s hard for even the brand’s most legitimate peers to match. From the most brilliantly understated and quintessential dress watches ever made to disruptive sports watch designs like the Nautilus and Aquanaut, Patek has always done things without compromise, which has made every watch they’ve ever produced a future heirloom from the very day it first ticks to life.

Despite the hype surrounding the Nautilus and Aquanaut in recent years, the Calatrava references have always been considered a flagship for Patek. Like any model with a multi-decade production run, there is an immense amount of variety available within the Patek Calatrava world. For those seeking something a bit different from their Calatrava, this 1970s ref. 3484J in white gold isn’t just unexpected in appearance, but an attainable point-of-entry for a vintage Patek. For starters, these watches are a rare find in white gold as the norm for ‘70s Patek was yellow gold. Add in a fun, funky, and artfully designed integrated mesh bracelet and you have something that takes the understated Calatrava format and spins it into something a bit more glam and a lot more ‘70s in the best way possible. It’s an aesthetic that’d be right at home on the wrist of your favorite ‘70s rocker after they successfully ducked a sophomore record slump with a hit, or perhaps strapped to the arm of someone ripping through the gears of a Lamborghini LP400 Countach while the scream of its V12 fills the European countryside.

This rare bit of obscure Patek history is in fantastic vintage condition, with an untouched and flaw free dial, a sharp case that retains all of its original angles, and a look unlike anything else – all with the wonderful panache all Patek Philippe watches share..