The Calatrava 96 Inspired Dress Watch That Doesn’t Cut Corners: Introducing the HU-01 by Horologically Unique

Few timepieces define the concept of a dress watch quite as perfectly as the Patek Philippe Calatrava 96. Revolutionary in style during its 1930s debut, the Calatrava 96 has since become a blueprint for dress watches, admired by enthusiasts for its timeless appeal. Its vintage market value, however, has made this coveted watch a tough acquisition for many.

Emerging from the bustling horological metropolis of Singapore is Horologically Unique, a microbrand that seeks to fill this niche. Their mission - a simple yet striking one - is to emulate the style and flair of the original Calatrava 96 (or its descendant, the 570) and offer it to the watch-loving community at an affordable price. The product of their dedication is the HU-01, an impressively accessible, Calatrava-inspired timepiece that judiciously balances elegance with cost without compromising on quality.

Inspired by the iconic Calatrava 96, considered by many as the ultimate dress watch, Horologically Unique has designed the HU-01 - a modern variant of this beloved classic. True to the original, the HU-01 captures the Calatrava 96’s aesthetic with a contemporary twist. It preserves the classy discretion of a dress watch, subtly updating its proportions for the demands of the modern wearer.

Although vintage Calatrava watches charm with their petite 31-32mm diameters, the HU-01 offers a more familiar 36mm diameter, an elegant size that doesn’t compromise on visual impact. With an overall thickness of 9.1mm (or 6.2mm sans the crystal), and a lug-to-lug measurement of 44mm, the HU-01 maintains a compact profile that stays true to its vintage roots, while ensuring wearability for the modern wrist.