Vintage or Older Patek Help

[Kydreams]

I have owned a Rolex TT Datejust since 1996 and looking at getting a Vintage Patek or one of the earlier Mechanical (Automatic) timepieces. I'm more of an understated versus overstated watch. I like complications but not over the top in that department. Seeking classic like Calatrava but skeletonize versions as Patek movements are beautiful. Veterans chime in and point me into a direction of versions I should be looking for and things to look for condition wise. I have owned AP's other Rolex's, IWC etc so not new to the timepiece world but new to the Patek world. And go.... Please and thank you.

[fwhawk]

Are you looking for a sports watch or dress watch? I have developed an appreciation for Gondolo and some of the Ellipse models lately. You need to be cautious, of course, but there are some very well-respected re-sellers out there--David SW and European Watch Company, for example. There are many others too, I'm sure.

[fwhawk]

Condition is really important. I made a mistake once on a vintage Ellipse--not major, but I was disappointed in condition when it arrived. In addition, strap and buckle were not Patek--again lesson learned. I traded it away a short time later.

[jfriedkin]

In regard to your search, Patek really didn't come out with a skeleton until the 1970s. They did have a Calatrava with a sapphire crystal and auto movement made in the late 1960's - Ref 3561. When it comes to "vintage", the best advice I can give you is to start slow and learn as much as possible. Learn how to find problems. Good luck!

[Kydreams]

Originally Posted by fwhawk

Are you looking for a sports watch or dress watch? I have developed an appreciation for Gondolo and some of the Ellipse models lately. You need to be cautious, of course, but there are some very well-respected re-sellers out there--David SW and European Watch Company, for example. There are many others too, I'm sure.

Looking for a dress timepiece

[Kydreams]

Originally Posted by fwhawk

Condition is really important. I made a mistake once on a vintage Ellipse--not major, but I was disappointed in condition when it arrived. In addition, strap and buckle were not Patek--again lesson learned. I traded it away a short time later.

Thanks for the heads up

[Kydreams]

Originally Posted by jfriedkin

In regard to your search, Patek really didn't come out with a skeleton until the 1970s. They did have a Calatrava with a sapphire crystal and auto movement made in the late 1960's - Ref 3561. When it comes to "vintage", the best advice I can give you is to start slow and learn as much as possible. Learn how to find problems. Good luck!

Thank you