Patek Calatrava has been in the catalogue since the 1930s and still is a very prominent figure up to modern days. Before all the wave of steel sports watches, when we think of Patek, we think of an elegant dress watch, and Calatrava has always been that posterboy. There have been hundreds of different Calatrava references until now, where it is almost impossible to remember every single reference number (even for me), but there are a few references that can be remembered/celebrated a little more than others such as the 96, 2526, and this 3445.
In 1961, the ref.3445 was born and became Patek's first automatic wristwatch with a date function with the caliber 27-460. Previous caliber 12-600 movement that can be found in 2526s was the first automatic winding wristwatch, and this 3445 takes that next step with the addition of a date function.
There are in total 3 series that are known in this reference. 1st series being in the 60s, 2nd series in the 70s, and final series being in the 80s. This specific 3445 was produced in the 70s meaning it is the 2nd series of the reference. There are some differences with each series. One of the few noticeable features of the 2nd series is the change of crown; now featuring the Calatrava cross crown (1st series has the “PP” logo crown). Also, the 2nd series have changed the signature printing method, with now being painted signature instead of engraved signature you see on the 1st series. One thing that has kept the same but changed later in the 3rd series is crystal. 1st and 2d series features a rather domed crystal which gives a more vintage feel to the overall aesthetics, while the 3rd series features a more flatter crystal. Over the 21 years of production, this not only has gone through 3 series, but also went through many different dial variations. Speaking of the dial, this specific 3445 can be categorised as a little unique due to the baguette indexes at 12,6, and 9 o’clock. It gives that little touch of spark to what is a very classical dress watch. I personally have not seen another example with this dial configuration in 18K white gold, only have I found a few platinum 3445s with full baguette indexes.
Measuring 35mm in dimensions with 42mm lug to lug, I would like to classify this as the “Golden Ratio” for classical dress watches. Anything over 36/37mm for a dress watch for me, it’s a no no.
Look, I will be honest. I was not the biggest fan of dress watches with date functions before. The date function at 3 O’clock gives the watch a non-symmetrical look which unfortunately activated my OCD a little (I do not have OCD). However, after seeing the watch in person, that OCD has quickly gone away due to the beautiful case design, lug design, and the unique dial. Also, I personally realised that having a date function is actually pretty helpful on many occasions.
Overall with holding strong hallmarks, I would consider it to be in good condition since the watch has not gone through a lot of polishing. This watch has got all the aesthetics and feels that you want from a classical 70s Patek Calatrava.
