By Adam Keith, Associate Timepiece Editor for ViaLuxe-

Patek Philippe's elegant Calatrava watch for ladies, the white gold Ref. 4896G, has an elegant successor in the new Ref. 4897R.  Featuring the warm radiance of 18-karat rose gold in combination with a luscious chocolate brown dial and diamond-set bezel, this supremely elegant and sophisticated timepiece plays to the desires of demanding female collectors, through its use of the distinguished Patek Philippe 215 Caliber mechanical movement.

The Patek Philippe Ladies Calatrava Ref. 4897R watch measures 33mm in diameter, and stands a scant 6.35mm in height.  These virtues, which translate to chic elegance for any sartorial requirement, are largely attributable to the commendable thinness of the refined mechanism ticking securely within the finely polished case.  Seventy-two "Top Wesselton" round brilliant diamonds with a total weight of approximately 0.47 carat encircle the elegant dial.  Polished dauphine hands, matte triangular hour markers, and the intricate guilloche pattern capture the subtleties of light, producing an effect which is graceful and sublimely effective.  The eye-catching beauty of both case and dial is perfectly complimented by the matching satin strap, that joins to the wrist securely with a rose gold prong buckle.      

A sapphire crystal exhibition window in the caseback of the Patek Philippe Ladies Calatrava Ref. 4897R watch reveals the compelling workmanship of the in-house manufactured 215 PS caliber.  Comprising 130 individual parts, and 18 jewels, this slender manually wound movement features a Gyromax balance wheel beating at 28,800 vibrations per hour, and an adjustable balance stud of the Geneva type.  Power reserve of the barrel is 44 hours.  Bridges gleam with Cotes de Geneve patterns and finely chamfered edges, and circular graining adorns the mainplate.  A closer examination reveals that settings for screws and jewels are finely beveled, and screws display a meticulous polish.  The attention paid by Patek Philippe throughout the movement corresponds with all the demanding requirements necessary to obtain the prestigious Geneva Seal.    

The Patek Philippe Ladies Calatrava Ref. 4897R watch is water resistant to 30 meters.  The sapphire crystal features a gently curved profile, and the winding crown displays the Calatrava cross, world famous symbol of Patek Philippe.

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