68 Patek Philippe Remarkable and Rare, Calatrava, Automatic Wristwatch in White Gold, Integrated Bracelet, Blue Dial With Iraki Emblem Logo, Reference 3606-1

Estimate: €8,000 –⁠ 16,000

Model: Calatrava
Reference: 3606-1
Case Material: White Gold
Bracelet Material: White Gold
Year: 1970's
Movement: Automatic
Caliber: 28–255
Case N°: 527781
Movement N°: 1 285 079
Dimensions: 32.5 mm
Signed: Dial, Case and Movement
Accessories: Extract from the Archives

Patek watches have long been favored by Sheiks, army officials and the ruling party in the Middle East. It comes as no surprise that these timepieces were also their gift of choice, particularly in the 1970s. During this time, Patek received a number of special orders for dials featuring the coat of arms, or the names of the royal family. The present watch is an outstanding Calatrava for a number of reasons. Most notably, the watch is fitted with an Iraki dial, featuring the Hawk, emblem of Iraki. Watches fitted with this dial were made on a special order for governments or prominent royals to mark important events or milestones, these “Arab logo dial” timepieces were never available for public consumption in retail stores. The well-preserved bracelet with a special pattern is integrated to a perfectly rounded stepped case with a snap on the back in 18k white gold. The blue dial with baton numerals and dauphine hands is the perfect example of simplicity and elegance while the Iraki emblem logo makes the whole watch as fascinating as it is attractive.