Manufacturer: Patek Philippe Year: 1962 Reference No: 3433 Movement No: 1'111'922 Case No: 2'624'216 Material: 18k yellow gold Calibre: Automatic, cal. 27-460, 37 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Alligator Clasp/Buckle: Pin buckle Dimensions: 36mm. Diameter Signed: Case, dial and movement signed Accessories: Accompanied by an Extract from the Archives confirming date of production of this watch on 1962 and its subsequent sale on June 22nd, 1962.
Catalogue Essay
There is not much more one could expect from a classic, elegant and timeless watch than what can be found in this reference 3433. The thin stepped case with a dash of “disco volante” playfulness perfectly fits the wrist and will allow one’s shirt to smoothly slip over it. With a large 36mm diameter, a silver colored sunburst dial adorned with thin gold baton indexes, this wristwatch embodies the ultimate gentleman’s elegance. In 1960, the brand launched the reference 3433 with a screw-down case and an automatic movement to replace the previous Calatrava reference 2551. In production for approximately 6 years, only 30 examples are known in yellow gold. Part of the early production, the present watch features a “PP” crown whereas the later examples bear the Calatrava cross. In superb condition as shown by the excellent proportions of the lugs, this watch is a great addition to any gentleman’s collection.
Since its founding in 1839, this famous Geneva-based firm has been surprising its clientele with superbly crafted timepieces fitted with watchmaking's most prestigious complications. Traditional and conservative designs are found across Patek Philippe's watches made throughout their history — the utmost in understated elegance.
Well-known for the Graves Supercomplication — a highly complicated pocket watch that was the world’s most complicated watch for 50 years — this family-owned brand has earned a reputation of excellence around the world. Patek's complicated vintage watches hold the highest number of world records for results achieved at auction compared with any other brand. For collectors, key models include the reference 1518, the world's first serially produced perpetual calendar chronograph, and its successor, the reference 2499. Other famous models include perpetual calendars such as the ref. 1526, ref. 3448 and 3450, chronographs such as the reference 130, 530 and 1463, as well as reference 1436 and 1563 split seconds chronographs. Patek is also well-known for their classically styled, time-only "Calatrava" dress watches, and the "Nautilus," an iconic luxury sports watch first introduced in 1976 as the reference 3700 that is still in production today.