Patek Philippe

The Patek Philippe Ref 2593 is a beautiful yet simple mid-20th-century, water-resistant, time-only Calatrava from the 1950s. Cased in 18K yellow gold, it features a polished two-body case measuring 32 mm in diameter and 8 mm in thickness. Its understated profile and smooth bezel reflect the Bauhaus-inspired design principles that have long influenced the Calatrava line.

The matte silver dial is adorned with applied yellow gold baton hour markers and matching baton hands, offering a clean and legible display. This harmonious design underscores Patek Philippe's dedication to aesthetic purity and functional clarity.

At the heart of Reference 2593 lies the manually wound Caliber 23-300, a movement renowned for its precision and durability. This caliber is stamped with the Geneva Seal, signifying its adherence to the highest standards of Swiss watchmaking.

Features include fausses côtes decoration, 18 jewels, a straight-line lever escapement, and a Gyromax balance adjusted for heat, cold, isochronism, and five positions. The movement also incorporates a shock absorber and a self-compensating free-sprung Breguet balance spring, enhancing its reliability and performance.

Produced during a period when Patek Philippe emphasized craftsmanship over mass production, Reference 2593 is a relatively rare find. Its classic dimensions and elegant design make it a sought-after piece among collectors who appreciate the brand's heritage and the enduring appeal of the Calatrava line. The watch's timeless aesthetic ensures its relevance across generations, embodying the philosophy that has made Patek Philippe a cornerstone of fine watchmaking.

The current example retains two elements that set it apart from almost any other to have come to market. Firstly — and unusually for a watch from this era — it retains its Certificate of Origin, the holy grail of accessories for vintage Patek collectors. Secondly, both the certificate and the watch’s dial are stamped by its original retailer, the famed Gübelin.