This listing is for a gents Patek Philippe Calatrava 1578 watch in excellent condition. This was the very rare Award Watch series given to Overseas executives of General Motors, and there are just a handful of these documented in existence. They came with a rare black dial and bigger 35mm size. It's also engraved with the executives name on the back of the watch. This Patek was just serviced by the company at their Switzerland facility for a complete restoration, including new strap and 18kt buckle.The 35mm diameter case houses a manual movement, while the black dial features Arabic numeral markers. It comes on a black leather strap with a tang buckle. Circa 1954. In 1954, General Motors commissioned a limited series of 20-30 distinctive Patek Philippe Reference 1578 watches for its top executives. These particular timepieces are the sole examples of the Reference 1578 featuring a black dial. Each watch displays an engraving on the case back marked with GMC or GMOO (General Motors Overseas Operation) alongside the employee’s name. This Reference 1578 is crafted with an 18k yellow gold case that measures 35mm. It houses a manual winding caliber 12-400 movement and is adorned with a black dial that showcases gold hour markers and a small seconds sub-dial positioned at 6 o'clock. The watch’s refined design, characterized by downturned and flared lugs, makes it a fitting accessory for high-ranking executives. These timepieces embody a significant collaboration between Patek Philippe and General Motors, highlighting the prestige of both brands during the mid-20th century. They represent an era when exquisite, bespoke watches were presented to honor exceptional employees. This specific Patek Philippe Reference 1578 serves as a prime example of the remarkable rarity of this watch, produced in partnership with General Motors during the mid-1950s. The 1578 models created for General Motors are unique, as they are the only versions of the Reference 1578 to feature a black dial, with no others ever made. The watch is in good overall condition; while the case reflects signs its age, it appears largely untouched, complete with deep hallmarks and retaining all original factory finishes. The black dial has developed a charming patina over the years—characteristic of its age—which does not diminish its aesthetic appeal. All components are consistent with the watch, including the 12-400 movement.