Limited Ed. for the Japanese Market Patek Philippe Ref. 3718

This elegant timepiece is a Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 3718A with a slate gray dial.  Released exclusively in 1989 for the Japanese market to celebrate Patek Philippe’s 150th anniversary, this rare reference was strictly limited to approximately 500 total pieces split between ivory and slate dials.   This timepiece represents one of the few instances where the Maison housed a traditional Calatrava dress watch in steel and  remains an elusive prize for collectors who prize discreet elegance and extreme rarity.  While vintage dress watches are typically forged from precious metals, Patek Philippe reserved stainless steel for specific, low-volume commemorative releases. The 33mm stainless steel three-body case features classic straight lugs and a polished stepped bezel, creating a slender, ultra-elegant silhouette.  The dial architecture is a masterclass in pure, unadorned sophistication. A beautiful sunburst slate gray dial acts as the canvas for polished, applied white gold baton indices and matching slim hands.  Free of a date display, the dial features only a beautifully balanced subsidiary seconds register at 6 o'clock. This minimalist layout ensures perfect legibility while allowing the exquisite dial finish to catch the light beautifully.  This reference with the slate dial are very hard to come by these days.  Beneath the dial beats the revered, ultra-thin Manual-Wind Caliber 215 PS. Stamped with the prestigious Geneva Seal, this high-grade mechanical movement features 18 jewels, a Gyromax balance wheel, and an approximate 44-hour power reserve. It delivers absolute precision and unparalleled reliability in an ultra-slender format. The condition of this watch is outstanding and believed to be unpolished. An Archive from Patek Philippe accompanies this watch.  A little added extra is the watch still retains its original steel Patek Philippe tang buckle featuring the Calatrava Cross emblem.  These steel buckles are a rare and sought after as well.