In exceptional condition, this vintage manual-wind 18ct yellow gold Patek Philippe Calatrava was presented to a renowned jet pilot in the U.S. Air Force as a mark of esteem by the Salaam Club, a benevolent society. The gold case with remarkably crisp edges has had only very light use in its 70 years, and has a beautiful gentle patina that we simply couldn't bring ourselves to polish.

The Calatrava reference 2451 normally has plain batons and straight hands, but this example has classical Patek Arabic 'Breguet' applied numerals with matching leaf hands. Solid silver cream-finish dial also in exemplary condition. Subsidiary seconds markers and the words 'Patek Philippe Genève' incised and filled with black vitreous enamel, an expensive yet permanent technique of marking that Patek reserved for their best work. Hand-stitched Patek alligator strap. Screw-down case by Francois Borgel, including anti-magnetic inner cover. A serious watch for a serious owner.

The Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives indicates the date of sale as 4 December 1951, and just a month later the watch was presented to the celebrated Major James Jabara. Major (later Colonel) Jabara was the USA's first Jet "Triple Ace", a hero of WWII and the Korean War. He was awarded the Distinguished Service Cross, and his name is attached to an annual U.S.A.F. award for Airmanship, given to this day. Image: American Air Museum.