If there is a watch I get PM about more than any other its the steel Calatrava, so I prepare this article to help.



Ref 570 pic credit Philipps

The most famous is the ref 570, with a generous 35/36mm case – alas the boat/plane/train all gone on this one (for the normal folk amongst us anyway)- prices are reaching 100k euro.






Pic credits Christie’s 


Pic credit Christie’s 





Pic credit Christie’s 

So why am I writing this? Just to depress everyone???

 

No, there are three pieces still accessible. But for how long?

1.     The ref. 1503: a superb size, 35.5mm, and the thin bezel gives it huge wrist presence. Very rare- I have been told only 12? pieces in all dial versions. How much? Anyone’s guess….have not seen any for sale recently, but Phillips sold the last one for CHF 35,000. With this size and rarity, I cannot see them for this price in good condition now. A lot depends on the dial version however, the Arabic dial probably being most desirable, then the two tone dial.








2.     The ref 3466- A steel round case so typical of the 1960’s 34.5/35mm. Phillips sold one with a dial signed by Beyer for CHF40,000. Typically though 20k euro should get a decent one. Again this really in expensive compared to the other models.




3.     Finally the ref 3483, centre seconds, very rare in this specification, 34/35mm, but very accessible for now. Again 20K Euro should get a good one.



Both the 3466/3483 are very undervalued, but if you crave a vintage steel Calatrava this is the time to grab one. The 1503 is already beginning to fly, and is in my opinion a superb addition for a collection but the issue is rarity- finding one is near impossible these days. But if you do see one, grab it as I see them going the way of the 570.

 






This message has been edited by Baron - Mr Red on 2018-07-16 12:58:48