181 Patek Philippe A tasteful and sophisticated Patek Philippe Calatrava reference 3796 in pink gold with box and papers

Estimate: € 6,000 –⁠ 12,000

Model: Calatrava
Material: Pink gold
Reference N°: 3796
Year: 1991
Case N°: 2907513
Caliber: 215
Movement N°: 1827379
Bracelet: Leather strap
Dimensions: 31
Signed: Dial, Case and movement
Accessories: Box and papers

What you are looking at is one of the last example of the “old-style” wristwatches that Patek Philippe kept within its production until the end of the 20th century. This lot is the unusual reference 3796, the ’80s incarnation of the always appreciated reference 96. The 3796 represents in fact the last model made with the small diameter of 31 mm, the typical size that people used to wear in the first part of the century, and the unmistakable Calatrava style. It was in production from 1982 until 1999 and tried to be as similar as possible to the 96 except for three details: the new sapphire glass instead of the plastic one of the past, the caliber that now is a 215 PS and the caseback which is now waterproof and with a small flap for easier opening. It was replaced by references 5196 and 5296 in the late 1990s and it was available in all three gold colors and in platinum, with a variation of dial layouts. The pink-gold example available here is in excellent condition featuring a beautiful and very clear white dial with applied gold baton indexes, outer pearled minutes division, feuille hands and subsidiary seconds at 6. Sold with box and papers, this is the chance to own one of the most classic Patek Philippe designs but with modern details giving the perfect solution.
With Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch with silvered dial, applied rose gold hour markers in 1991 and its subsequent sale on 12 December 1991. Furthermore delivered with the original fitted presentation box.