THE ESSENTIALS
MAKE: PATEK PHILIPPE
MODEL: 2552
YEAR: 1955
BOX/PAPERS: NO/NO
CASE DIAMETER: 36MM
CASE MATERIAL: 18K YELLOW GOLD
BRACELET MATERIAL: LEATHER
MOVEMENT: AUTOMATIC
In 1931, Rolex patented their “Perpetual Rotor” movement, then a groundbreaking mechanism that allowed a watch to be wound “automatically” and “perpetually” thanks to the use of a centre-mounted, free-spinning oscillating weight. Close to a century later, automatic movements have become the norm across virtually every manufacturer.
What few people realise is that, for around two decades after 1931, other manufacturers were forbidden from building a similar mechanism due to patent laws: Patek Philippe included. It wasn’t until 1952 that Patek released their first automatic calibre, the 12-600AT. Patek did not waste the long 20-year wait, as the 12-600AT was packed with (almost over-engineered) technologies and, of course, mesmerisingly beautiful finishing (there are many articles online that go into great depth on this topic).
The 12-600AT movement was used in just over a dozen references, and the ref. 2552, such as the present example, is easily one of the most spectacular. Nicknamed the “Disco Volante”, Italian for “flying saucer”, it features a distinctive stepped case architecture and stepped bezel, made by A. Wenger, with casemaker Key No. 1 (spot the hallmark). The 36 mm case was large for its era and wears fantastically on the wrist.
The ref. 2552 was produced in various metals, including yellow gold, white gold, and platinum, and with several dial designs, but only approximately 650 examples were made in total. This example has survived in tremendous condition. The stepped case, original Patek Philippe crown, and original caseback have seen minimal polishing, with their hallmarks still easily visible. The 12-600AT movement is running beautifully following an independent service last year, at +5 s/d, with 275° amplitude and a beat error of 0.4 ms. The dial and hands have both survived in great condition too, with (presumably) the original owner’s name engraved on the caseback.
It’s hard not to love a vintage Calatrava, especially when they come like this.