The Reference 5026 is within the original 96 Calatrava lineage. A neovintage Patek Philippe with a classic 96 style case, but this time in 33.5mm, which is one of the best sizes ever produced in the Calatrava lineup. The 5026 also features an open caseback with the micro rotor caliber 240PS. The 5026 is a phenomenal Calatrava. The case size, breguet numeral, open caseback, and 4 o'clock seconds hand all come together to make a perfect dress watch.
The Calatrava - The first Patek Philippe Calatrava watch was created in 1932, featuring a gold dial with an ivory dial and applied gold markers. The watch was powered by a Jaeger-LeCoultre mechanical caliber. The brand was purchased by brothers Jean and Charles Henri Stern, who sought a new watch model to complement their complex timepieces. The Calatrava Reference 96 was produced for over 40 years, with notable renditions including the larger 35.5mm version (Ref. 570) in 1938. In 1953, Patek Philippe introduced its first-ever automatic Calatrava, Ref. 2526, in a 36mm case with enamel dials and a round bezel. Fewer than 600 of these were made, and they are still in demand today. In 1973, the signature Calatrava, Ref. 3520, was introduced, featuring a stunning bezel with Clous de Paris guilloche and straight, polished lugs. The Officer's Style Calatrava with straight lugs and a hinged dust cover may have inspired the Reference 5524G pilot's watch, featuring Patek Philippe's patented Travel Time mechanism. Today, Patek Philippe has numerous Calatrava references, making it one of the most celebrated collections in watchmaking.
