Patek Philippe Vintage Antimagnetic Watches

quattro · 2026-03-25T17:17:35Z

Explore the rare Patek Philippe Ref. 3417, a steel antimagnetic watch with a radium dial. Discover its unique features and collector insights.

quattro

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

45 replies1317 views5 photos

Emmanuel, known as quattro on WatchProSite, revisits the topic of antimagnetic watches, spotlighting what he considers the most beautiful example ever created: the Patek Philippe Ref. 3417. This article delves into the unique characteristics of this steel-cased, radium-dialed timepiece, famously owned by John Nagayama, and explores why it holds such a significant place in horological history.

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Echoing my post on Rexhep Rexhepi's antimagnetic watch, here is what is perhaps the most beautiful antimagnetic watch ever created:

the Patek Philippe ref. 3417 with a steel case and a radium dial which belongs to John Nagayama…

Best, Emmanuel

Watch by Patek Philippe, 3417, Calatrava

credit: John Nagayama aka @onbehalf & Hodinkee

About the Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 3417

The Patek Philippe Calatrava reference 3417 is an antimagnetic timepiece. This reference is distinguished by its specific antimagnetic properties.

This reference features a steel case. The dial is noted as a radium dial. No further details regarding the movement or case architecture are provided.

The Patek Philippe Calatrava reference 3417 appeals to collectors seeking a specific antimagnetic Patek Philippe model. Its characteristics are defined by its reference number and antimagnetic designation.

Specifications

Caliber: 27-AM 400

Case: Stainless steel

Diameter: 35mm

Dial: Silver

Water Resist.: No

Crystal: Plexiglass

Key Points from the Discussion

The Patek Philippe Ref. 3417 with a luminous dial is exceptionally rare; among 21 examples sold by John Nagayama, only one was luminous and Beyer-signed.
The Ref. 3417 is powered by the Caliber 12-400, which features an antimagnetic cover, a key component for its antimagnetic properties.
A collector recounts a memorable encounter with a Patek Philippe steel Antimagnetic watch, identical to the one featured, highlighting its lasting impression.
One member suggests design modifications, such as shortening hour indices, reducing sub-dial size, and altering Arabic numeral fonts, which some might consider 'heresy' for a vintage Patek Philippe.
The Patek Philippe Ref. 3417, along with other 'Amagnetic' references, is considered one of the most interesting and beautiful pieces from the brand.

The Discussion

mblum3

Mar 25, 2026

Simply fabulous!

Amazing that the radium didn't destroy the dial. And what style!! The whole package.

quattro

Mar 25, 2026

Yes, the most wonderful example I’ve seen!

Really fabulous, as you say. Best, Emmanuel

wjt

Mar 25, 2026

That’s an incredible piece!

quattro

Mar 25, 2026

I think so too!

Best, Emmanuel

JoshTheCanadian

Mar 25, 2026

In the running...

For the most beautiful watch I have ever seen, full stop. Thanks for sharing.

quattro

Mar 25, 2026

It’s definitely a true stunner.

Best, Emmanuel

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Patek Philippe Vintage Antimagnetic Watches

About the Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 3417

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

Continue the conversation

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