Patek Philippe

The Patek Philippe Ref 448 dress watch is one of original Calatrava references, named after the ornate ‘Calatrava’ cross that is part of its brand.

The Swiss watchmaker Patek Philippe and American jeweller Tiffany & Co recognised the merits of a union of luxury brands in the mid 19th century.

Since Patek Philippe brought out the Calatrava in the 1930s, the watch – with time-only functionality and an austere circular case shape – has been produced in many different dial and case variants.

Estimated at $2000-3000, this Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref 1491 sold for $37,500 (£31,250) at Roland Auctions (25% buyer’s premium) .

The sale in 1872 of a silver pocket watch manufactured by Patek Philippe in Geneva to the jeweller and retailer Gondolo & Labouriau in Rio de Janeiro marked the beginning of a highly successful and mutually profitable business partnership that lasted until 1927.

Time is of the essence in the story of Speed Menefee (1879-1968), the shortest-serving city mayor in US history – and original owner of a pocket watch offered at the Chester Decorative Antiques & Art Fair.