Patek philippe Ref. 3440: The "Screw-Back" Calatrava by Antoine Gerlach

The Patek Philippe Ref. 3440 in yellow gold is a highly significant automatic timepiece, both technically and aesthetically, produced between 1960 and the late 1960s. Movement: It is powered by the Caliber 27-460 automatic with18k gold rotor decorated with guilloché and the Calatrava Cross. The Gyromax regulation system. The Geneva Seal (Poinçon de Genève), certifying its exceptional finishing. Case: in 18k yellow gold, with size of 34.5 mm. It is distinguished by its screw-back case, which was originally designed for water resistance. This provides the watch with a more robust and solid wrist presence compared to snap-back models. The Case Maker: Antoine Gerlach Poinçon de Maître (Hallmark): Inside the case (or on the lugs, depending on the specific example) is the hallmark shaped like a hammer head with the number 4 inside. Identity: This mark identifies the prestigious Genevan case maker Antoine Gerlach, one of Patek Philippe’s most important historical suppliers. Gerlach is renowned for producing cases for some of the brand’s most legendary references, such as the Ref. 2499 perpetual calendar chronograph and the Ref. 2497. His involvement guarantees that the Ref. 3440 meets the highest qualitative standards of the manufacture. ### Design and Aesthetic Details Dial:Typically silvered with a *sunburst* finish, The absence of a date window allows for perfect dial symmetry. Lugs: The Ref. 3440 features faceted lugs with sharp, distinct angles a stylistic signature that emphasizes its modern appeal compared to earlier models. Crown:Often fitted with the "double P" (PP) logo crown. Historical Context and Rarity Introduced to offer an automatic, waterproof alternative without a date complication, the Ref. 3440 is considered a sophisticated choice for collectors today. It is less common than the subsequent Ref. 3445 and features a case signed by one of the most celebrated master case makers in horological history.