Revered by collectors for decades, Patek Philippe has long been the watchmaker that stood as the benchmark for quality and luxury. Unwavering in their ability to produce some of the finest timepieces imaginable, Patek has stuck to their classical styling, exacting standards, and rich heritage like few other brands.
A part of this heritage is the Patek Philippe Calatrava collection. Debuting in 1932 as a dress watch that emphasized function over form, it sought to tell the time in an as clear and utilitarian manner possible. The ref. 3579 that I have here displays the same rigidity in its design, while also breaking from several of the collection’s constraints.
Released in 1969 and produced until 1974, the ref. 3579 speaks to the whacky design inspiration that was popular during the time. While not exactly ground-breaking these days, the ref. 3579 is housed within a 33mm stainless steel tonneau-shaped case. Both massive breaks from Patek’s conventional case design, the ref. 3579 is an utterly unique vintage offering that is confident in its originality and showcases that even Patek Philippe, a conservative brand even to this day, is willing to try new things if times call for it.
Like the Calatrava in utility, the ref. 3579 is powered by a time-only movement, in this case, the manually-wound cal. 23-300. Featuring a stunning sunburst blue dial, free of unnecessary details and distracting elements, the ref. 3579 is stylistically simple and constant in its approach as a classical, yet slightly unorthodox offering.
