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17 May 2012, 12:53 PM | #1 |
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Calatrava - Robust Enough For Everyday Use?
Hello,
I'm looking to get back into a Patek after a ten year absence. I once had a beautiful 60's Calatrava that I loved but it had seen some humidity over the years and it needed some significant work which was beyond my budget so I regretfully sold it. I now find myself in a position to once again consider getting another Patek and I am trying to decide which model to pursue. I originally was thinking about an Aquanaut but I keep seeing Calatravas that I really like. I am wondering if a more modern Calatrava would be robust enough to wear daily. I do walk to work and I have a seven year old son so sweat and the odd knock are going to happen. I currently wear a 70's Rolex Datejust most days and as much as I like it I would expect that if I bought another Patek I would want to wear it almost everyday. Do you guys think that a Calatrava would be up to the job? |
17 May 2012, 08:51 PM | #2 |
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I certainly do--these watches are made for wearing. Now if you work construction--no. If you are a diver--no.Too many people seem to think just because a watch is a Patek it can't be worn every day and is fragile. I have owned many supposed fragile watches over the years and found them all to be great daily wearers! So--Go for it!
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17 May 2012, 10:51 PM | #3 |
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I wore my Calatrava 5127G to work for at least 12 months before I sold it. The 324 sc movement is reliable and accurate. Remember, this is one of the simplest Patek. Less mechanical=less parts to go wrong!
As long as you remember to take it off when you go swimming, gardening or washing your car, you be alright! Warning-The leather strap aren't cheap to replace when worn-out! |
17 May 2012, 11:42 PM | #4 |
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If I had to wear just one watch everyday to work, it would be a 5296G-010 or 5196P. The 30m water resistance would give me peace of mind but I'd probably want a summer strap.
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18 May 2012, 01:01 AM | #5 |
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Patek Philippe makes wonderful watches and, in my humble opinion, they can make great everyday watches (again, I'm pretty much like Ken and think any type of watch can be worn everyday, I've walked and been to school with dress watches several times). However, I must say it is probably a bit less tough than your Datejust so you may have to get used to small scratches over the years.
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Mon corps c'est un pays en guerre sur l'point d'finir, Le général de l'armée de terre s'attend au pire, J'ai faim, j'ai frette, je suis trop faible pour me lever debout, On va hisser le drapeau blanc un point c'est tout. - André Fortin |
18 May 2012, 05:37 AM | #6 |
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My 1940's Calatrava does office duties most days and I'm not worried about it. It was probably on someone's wrist for the last 50 or 60 years and I've no reason to think it won't last. I take care not to bang it about because it would be expensive to have Patek fix a balance staff (no shock protection back then) but other than that it's fit for purpose.
My 5296 gets worn at weekends during the cooler months and again I don't worry about it.
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18 May 2012, 06:01 AM | #7 | |
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Quote:
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18 May 2012, 07:25 AM | #8 |
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Thanks for all the responses. I'm not surprised that everyone endorses the idea but it is still nice to get confirmation. I suspect that any Calatrava with a water resistant case will be able to handle a reasonable amount of sweat and exposure. Let the shopping begin!
I am actually looking for a less dressy version of the Calatrava (no hobnail and probably white gold since I don't wear a suit to the office and I have a platinum wedding band). Since I really love a sub seconds hand a 3796 would probably do quite nicely. |
18 May 2012, 08:02 AM | #9 |
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Good luck with your hunt Scott, please keep us posted.
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When it captures your imagination, that's when you know you have found your passion. Loyal Foot Soldier of The Nylon Nation. Card Carrying Member of the Global Association of Retro-Grouch-Curmudgeons |
18 May 2012, 08:24 AM | #10 | |
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What do you think (it's not my picture but it gives you a good idea of what the dial looks like)?
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Mon corps c'est un pays en guerre sur l'point d'finir, Le général de l'armée de terre s'attend au pire, J'ai faim, j'ai frette, je suis trop faible pour me lever debout, On va hisser le drapeau blanc un point c'est tout. - André Fortin |
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18 May 2012, 10:59 AM | #11 | |
"TRF" Member
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Quote:
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18 May 2012, 11:06 AM | #12 | |
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I'm sure you'll be thrilled with the model you'll buy, whatever this model is! Good hunt!
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Mon corps c'est un pays en guerre sur l'point d'finir, Le général de l'armée de terre s'attend au pire, J'ai faim, j'ai frette, je suis trop faible pour me lever debout, On va hisser le drapeau blanc un point c'est tout. - André Fortin |
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19 May 2012, 06:44 AM | #13 |
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I don't own one, but I sure would wear it without hesitation!
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19 May 2012, 08:15 AM | #14 |
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That's like the shallow part of the Pacific ocean right. LOL. Great choice. Keep us posted.
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19 May 2012, 08:17 AM | #15 |
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I wouldn't... and no, I don't work in constructions, but I won't wear anything that cannot be soaked in water or take a couple of hard knocks in a door frame, or something I have to take off to take my kids to the playground.
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19 May 2012, 11:29 AM | #16 |
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I've got a 5196R. While its pretty sturdy, I wouldn't want to wear it daily. I think it would be fine to wear to a desk job everyday, and then out on weekends, but I would bum out if it got scratched up or dented.
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