1 in stock

Movado Caltrava Ref. 18271 Tropic Dial Stainless Steel

This vintage Movado, Ref. 18271, is a remarkable example of a watch transformed by time, boasting a spectacular and deeply patinated “tropical” dial. The original surface has aged into a warm, golden-yellow hue with a heavy, bubble-like texture, creating a look that is entirely unique. In a testament to its fine craftsmanship, all elements on the dial are individually applied, including the faceted dagger indices, the Arabic numerals at the cardinal points, and most impressively, the individual letters of the “MOVADO” logo. Elegant, aged leaf hands and a delicate central seconds hand sweep across this dynamic surface.This stunning dial is housed in a classic Calatrava-style stainless steel case with a fixed bezel and sharp, faceted lugs, making it a truly one-of-a-kind piece.

1 in stock

1 in stock

General

Brand

reference

18271

Manufactured

Switzerland

Department

Men

Dial Color

Tropical

Case

Case Shape

Round

Bezel

Fixed

Case Material

Stainless Steel

Case Width

34mm

Case Height

41mm

Strap / Bracelet

Lug Width

16mm

Strap Material

Leather

Strap Color

Black

Clasp

Buckle

Max Wrist Size

8"

Movement

Movement

Manual Wind

Caliber

Movado 6531

Accuracy

>15 seconds

The movement showed a daily accuracy deviation ranging from 0 to 15 seconds across six positions.

Extras

Warranty Every watch sold by Ottuhr comes with a 1-year mechanical warranty. Select pieces may also include additional guarantees or extended coverage.

1-Year Ottuhr Warranty

Original Box

No

Original Papers

No

Overview

Some watches simply tell the time. Others, the truly special ones, tell a story. They are canvases for the slow, unpredictable artistry of sunlight, humidity, and the simple passage of decades. This vintage Movado is, without any exaggeration, one of the most dramatic and breathtaking storytellers we have ever had the privilege to offer.

Before we even get to the dial, it’s important to remember the pedigree. In the mid-20th century, Movado was a true Swiss manufacture, producing exceptionally high-quality, in-house movements and beautiful designs. This piece is housed in a classic stainless steel “Calatrava” style case—a timeless, Bauhaus-influenced design defined by its simple round shape, flat bezel, and elegant lugs that flow seamlessly from the case. It is the quintessential dress watch silhouette, the perfect, understated frame for the masterpiece within.

And what a masterpiece it is. The dial of this Reference 18271 is the entire story. What was once a simple silvered surface has, over the past 70-odd years, transformed into an incredible tropical landscape. This is not mere patina; this is a work of organic, accidental art. The surface has blossomed into a vibrant, mottled tapestry of golden-brown, ochre, and cream hues, forming a complex pattern that evokes a coral reef or the spots on a wild cat. This is the magic of a “tropical” dial—a flaw in an old lacquer formula that, when exposed to the elements, creates something utterly unique and beautiful. No two are ever alike, but the pattern on this example is truly on another level of complexity and visual drama.

This is a watch for the true romantic, for the connoisseur of patina. Its condition is, in our opinion, perfect in its imperfection. The stainless steel case is sharp and appears unpolished, with its elegant lines fully intact. But the dial is the hero, and its breathtaking, one-of-a-kind pattern is stable and mesmerizing. The original applied markers and dauphine hands float above this incredible scene, their sharp forms a perfect contrast to the organic beauty beneath.

Timing: The watch has been measured with a timegrapher at six different positions. The rate, amplitude, and beat error are within acceptable ranges.

Functions: All functions including the crown winding, time setting, etc are working as expected.

Integrity: The movement shows no signs of damage, rust, or corrosion, with all components appearing clean and well-maintained.

Authenticity: Each timepiece is evaluated and authenticated in-house. This watch is guaranteed to be correct to its manufacturer and time period.

Warranty: This timepiece includes a 1-year mechanical warranty, activated upon the date of purchase. 

Shipping: This timepeice includes complimentary insured shipping within all 50 states. 

Returns: If, for any reason, you are not entirely satisfied with your purchase, you may return the product for a full refund within 30 days from the date you received or signed for the item.

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