Patek Philippe's Often-Overlooked Masterpiece: An Exploration of the Reference 1526 Perpetual Calendar

Published: 05 Dec 2025
The Patek Philippe Reference 1526 Perpetual Calendar, long overshadowed by its siblings, holds a special place in horological history.

The Patek Philippe Reference 1526 Perpetual Calendar is an iconic timepiece that quintessentially embodies horological excellence. This vintage watch has often been overshadowed by its more popular sibling- the Reference 1518. A long-time collector of Patek Philippe masterpieces, interested in the brand’s important references, made a recent addition to his collection- the Reference 1526 Perpetual Calendar.

This change was catalysed by an unexpected dearth of consolidated information about the 1526 model, compared to abundant data about the Reference 1518 and other landmark watches. It was this chasm that inspired a blossoming curiosity and led to a comprehensive study of the reference 1526. Spanning its history, cultural impact, intricate details and collectability, the exploratory journey into the world of the Reference 1526 opens an exciting path into the overlooked chapters of this Patek Philippe classic.

The limited availability of these watches in the market adds to their rare charm. Back in its day, the Reference 1526 retailed for $1,200, gradually appreciating in value to become an iconic antique.

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