Metal ion complexes of the double-armed p-tert-butylcatix[4]arene derivative possessing ¡mine functionality linked through salicylyl moiety at the lower rim has been synthesized for the first time and characterized by analytical, spectral and magnetic methods. The 1, 3- di-calix[4]arene-imine conjugate exhibits variable coordination behavior, from tctradcntatc to hexadentate, depending upon the metal ion to which it is bound, by always acting as di-anionic. While it uses both the ether oxygens of the pendants to coordinate in the case of Fc(III), Co(III) and Ni(II) complexes, it uses only the pendant salicylidene moieties in the case of Cu(II) and Zn(II) complexes. The Zn(II) complex catalysis ester hydrolysis through the formation of Zn(II)-hydroxo species.