Thanks to the transparent sapphire case-back, there is also a lot to see on the back. The self-winding Manufacture caliber 324 S C FUS features a gold oscillating weight with circular graining. The bridges are decorated with Geneva dots and the edges are beveled and polished. The screw heads are carefully polished in-house by Patek Philippe. This is yet another example of why Patek Philippe replica watches command such a high price – the impressive hand-crafting and hand-finishing that goes into each watch.
We had the opportunity to test this extremely robust spring. Unlike a metal spring, it can be pulled far out of its original shape, but still steadily returns to its original shape. Impacts also had little effect. It eventually broke into many pieces when the spring was pulled almost completely straight with tweezers.
The base movement itself is from an earlier generation, as can be seen from the relatively low power reserve of 35 to 45 hours. For some time now, Patek Philippe has relied on Gyromax balance and fine adjustment via positioning weights, which allows the hairspring to expand and contract freely for improved results. The Patek Philippe Seal set the decoration standard and the strict rate accuracy specifications.
But the quality of the finishing of the case, dial, hands and strap is outstanding in every respect. A closer look, even with a watchmaker’s magnifying glass, reveals the flawlessly polished surfaces of the case, the fine sunburst decoration on the dial, and the perfectly stitched calfskin strap that wraps very comfortably around the wrist.
For this price, purchasers can rest assured of excellent finishing and outstanding value. While the Calatrava Pilot does not reach the aftermarket price of the steel Aquanaut Travel Time (which can be almost twice the price of a new purchase), it also does not immediately depreciate in value by 30% as other brands do.
Our test watch convinced us in every way – its attractive, easily recognizable, slightly sporty design, practical and easy-to-use second-time zone, clever locking pushers, plus its superb execution and attention to every detail.
