Passions Watch Exchange

About This Watch

Vintage. No box or paper but sold with archive certificate issued by factory.

According to the factory records, this watch was manufactured in 1940 and sold on 4 March 1941.

This Ref.448 was introduced in 1935 and production ended in 1956. It is an identical model to the iconic Ref.96 that was introduced in 1932 except that this is 2mm smaller. It's interesting to note that gents in those era wear such small watches. This model was manufactured in three series: First series with calibre 10"; second series featured here - Cal.10-105 or 10-110, from 1939; third series - Cal.10-200  from 1946.

This Calatrava is in fair condition and the back cover is engraved with "P.L.S. to R.S.S. 1916-1941" which is a 25th anniversary gift and the year coincides with the year of sale from the factory record. Our watch here was sold by Tiffany & Co and signed on the dial which is a special request from a long working relationship between these two illustrious companies. So this watch has the benefit of double signature which makes it very desirable.

A few months later, in December 1941, Imperial Japanese Navy bombed Pearl Harbour and United States declared war on Japan.

This watch radiates elegance, with a flat bezel that makes the 28 mm case appear larger on the wrist. The case has been well preserved and you can still find the gold hallmark. The original dial exhibits light signs of ageing while the solid yellow gold case has a heavy patina which is looking very appealing now and can be easily polished to a bright gold upon request. The movement shines and works very well. The original acrylic crystal has numerous old marks but we kept it for originality and will gladly replace a new one upon request.

It takes 17 winds on the crown to full power reserve. This watch will suit a man with small wrist and perfect for ladies who yearn for a vintage Patek Calatrava, this watch oozes history @ a most reasonable price.