An exceptionally understated Calatrava, combining the architectural elegance of straight lugs, a beautifully preserved silver dial and the discreet luxury of white gold.

The reference 3520 represents a particularly refined chapter in Patek Philippe's history. Its slim, screw-down case combines elegant dress-watch proportions with thoughtful construction, while the straight lugs create a distinctly architectural presence on the wrist.

This example is particularly appealing in 18k white gold. The case retains attractive definition, with clean lines and beautifully balanced proportions. Its restrained design feels surprisingly contemporary.

The silver soleil dial is equally charming, with delicate applied baton markers, matching hands and a beautifully subtle sunburst finish. Without a seconds hand or date window, nothing interrupts the simplicity of the design.

The watch comes fitted with a Patek Philippe leather strap and an 18k white-gold Patek Philippe pin buckle.

For us, this is vintage Patek Philippe at its most elegant. A watch that never demands attention, yet rewards every closer look.

Specifications:

Patek Philippe Calatrava reference 3520G
Circa 1972, serials 270xxxx / 116xxxx
18k white-gold case with screw-down caseback
Silver soleil dial with applied baton markers
Manual-winding calibre 175
Patek Philippe leather strap and 18k white-gold pin buckle
Fully serviced by an experienced professional watchmaker
One-year mechanical warranty
Fully insured worldwide shipping included

Historical Context

Introduced in 1965, the reference 3520 was originally advertised by Patek Philippe as the world's thinnest waterproof wristwatch. Its screw-down caseback was an important technical feature, allowing an exceptionally slim dress watch to offer additional protection.

Central to this achievement was the manually wound calibre 175, based on the ultra-thin Frédéric Piguet calibre 21. With 18 jewels and a remarkably slender construction, it enabled Patek Philippe to maintain the elegant proportions that defined the reference.

The earliest 3520 models featured a smooth bezel and calibre 175. In 1977, Patek Philippe introduced the calibre 177, while decorative Clous de Paris bezel variants helped establish another enduring Calatrava design signature.

The original flat-bezel 3520 remains a particularly pure expression of this important period in Patek Philippe's dress-watch history.

Patek Philippe Calatrava 3520G in 18K White Gold

Patek Philippe Calatrava 3520G in 18K White Gold

Before/after