2577R, Calatrava, Enamel Dial, Pink Gold

Patek Philippe’s ref. 2577 is one of the most elusive, little-known Calatravas to feature a full grand feu enamel dial. While the ref. 2526 and its successor the 3428 come immediately to mind, this is the sole other reference from the mid-century to feature enamel dial-making. This third esoteric enamel reference has several notable distinctions, first amongst them that it is manual and thinner. Twelve examples are known. The majority, 8, are in yellow gold. This example is 1 of just 4 made in pink gold. 

Launched in 1956, production of the ref. 2577 lasted only roughly 2.5 years. At the time of debut, most all clients preferred the then-novel and technically advanced self-winding calibre of the 2526. This 2577 is powered by calibre 10-200 (with 18 jewels and just 3.65mm thin), here strangely stamped twice with the Gevena Seal. Its dial is true grand feu enamel with applied pink gold indices, a beaded minute track, petite seconds, and a pink gold dauphine handset. This dial features the same two-firing process with unusually thick layers that has seen 2526 dials rise to fame, featuring a comparable light cream shade. Its dial base is silver.  

Interestingly, the ultra-thin calibre meant the 2577 received its own case design. At 35.5mm and just 7.65mm thin without crystal (~8.4mm with), it is well-proportioned. The case features a beveled, tapering lug design not seen elsewhere in Patek Philippe. Unlike 2526, the case features a snap back. Unlike all other known examples, this case is perfectly preserved with clear hallmarks, sharp bevels, and all surfaces remarkably untouched. In addition to Extract it even has the original numbered hang tag. 

A spectacular Calatrava, this pink gold example is the most desirable which is so-far known to the market. Alongside the 2526 and 3428, these three references comprise the core of enamel dial Calatrava production in vintage Patek Philippe. The extreme scarcity of the 2577 has meant it is nowhere near as famed as the other two references. With its elegantly thin case and two-layer enamel dial, the 2577 is one of the most special and little-seen Calatravas made amongst the enamel dial references.

This 2577 presents in absolutely exceptional condition. The last time it traded hands, it was described as NOS. That said, we prefer not to use that term. The watch has been worn. However, its case has never been refinished and presents in the strongest condition yet known for a 2577. There is little to no surface wear and its hallmarks are perfectly preserved. The dial has no hairlines, fractures, or faults of any kind. There is no significant wear to speak of. Its calibre 10-200 is running well in specification on our timing equipment. It comes with its origin pink gold pink buckle, Extract of Archive, a presentation box, and its original numbered hang tag.

This example is modelled on an average-sized 7-inch wrist.