Description:
PATEK PHILIPPE CALATRAVA REF. 1578 “GENERAL MOTORS” BLACK DIAL
In 1954, General Motors commissioned 20 unique Patek Philippe Reference 1578 watches for their top employees. These are the only models of Reference 1578 with a black dial. Each watch features an engraving on the case back with “GMC GMOO” (General Motors Overseas Operation) and the employee’s name, such as S.W. Brooks. Every watch also feature the unique reference 1578 GM in the caseback. The Reference 1578GM boasts an 18k yellow gold case (35mm), a manual winding caliber 12-400 movement, a black dial with gold hour markers, and a small seconds sub-dial at 6 o’clock. The watch’s elegant design, including downturned, flared lugs, makes it suitable for high-level executives. These timepieces symbolize a significant partnership between Patek Philippe and General Motors, showcasing the prestige of both brands during the mid-20th century. They repre-sent a time when bespoke, luxurious watches were gifted to recognize outstanding employees.
The current Patek Philippe reference 1578GM is an excellent example of this exceptionally rare watch, created in collaboration in the mid-1950s by Patek Philippe with General Motors. This model is exceedingly scarce, manufactured in very limited quantities. The 1578 models produced for General Motors are the only instances of the reference 1578 with a black dial ever made. No other 1578 watches were ever produced with a black dial. Overall, the watch is in good condition. While the case shows signs of wear, it is likely untouched with deep hallmarks and retains all its original factory finishes. The black dial has aged gracefully, which is typical and does not detract from the watch’s beauty, especially given its age. All components are correct for this watch, including the 12-400 movement and the 1578 “GM” caseback.
Serial Number 6818XX, Year 50’s, Measuring 35mm.