Patek Philippe 5212A Calatrava Weekly Calendar: The Watch Connoisseurs Where Waiting For?

When one of the major introductions from Patek Philippe is crafted from stainless steel, it is almost always a sports model. But every rule needs to have an exception. In the past, Patek Philippe has veered a few times off the precious metals, towards the more common steel for their classic watches, but only on rare occasions. That is one part that makes the 5212A Calatrava Weekly Calendar so special, as the other part is the complication that it is fitted with!

To create this watch, Patek Philippe developed a completely new base caliber, which is equipped with a semi-integrated weekly calendar complication. It shows the date through a disc behind a window, while two hands indicate the day as well as the week. By adding another ring around the week numbers with the months, you get a very complete calendar, as well as a very practical watch.

The new base movement was designed as a solid performer, and finished to a very high standard, as we have grown accustomed with from Patek Philippe. It features a 21k gold oscillating weight, under which we find the Gyromax balance and Spiromax balance spring, which play a vital role in the performance of this Calatrava. The movement has the Patek Philippe seal and can be admired through the sapphire crystal case back.

The movement is housed in a stainless steel case, which has a diameter of 40mm. While this ensures quite some wrist presence, as well as gives Patek Philippe enough room to space out all the information on the dial so that it stays legible, it is still modest enough to keep that vintage vibe. Also subtle details, such as the stepped lugs aide in that.

The font on the dial also plays an important role in this, as they seem to be handwritten. This is quite a unique feature for a brand that is so driven by perfection as Patek Philippe. It adds a playful effect to the Calatrava Weekly Calendar and, combined with its complication, makes it even more casual. That is also why the light brown calfskin strap is such a good match for this Patek Philippe. With this watch, the brand is showing us a new side of itself. One that will without a doubt please some of their current collectors, but is also able to grab the attention of the next generation of Patek Philippe connoisseurs.