114 Patek Philippe Tasteful and Sophisticated Calatrava Wristwatch in Steel, Reference 96, With Silver Dial and Extract from the Archives

Estimate: € 7,000 –⁠ 14,000

Sold € 19,500

Model: Calatrava
Reference: 96
Case Material: Stainless steel
Bracelet Material: Leather strap
Year: 1939
Movement: Manual
Caliber: 12-120
Case N°: 619090
Movement N°: 829705
Dimensions: 32 mm
Signed: Case, dial, movement
Accessories: Extract from the archives

Reference 96 such the present lot is undeniably Patek Philippe’s most legendary design. The 96 was launched in 1932 and further changed the way of defining watches because it became the first model in history to which the reference number was added. Its timeless case proportions are as modern today, over 70 years later, as they were at the time of its creation. The specimen here offered is one of those very rare made in stainless steel: its three-body case with flat bezel, concave lugs and snap on back is extremely well preserved with very sharp edges and no evident signs of wearing. The dial is silvered with applied steel baton indexes, subsidiary seconds at 6, outer minute division and steel feuille hands are also nicely preserved. Among connoisseurs, the Calatrava reference 96 is the benchmark par excellence when measuring the elegance of a watch, as well a true example for the category. Accompanied by a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in Steel in 1939 and its subsequent sale on 29 March 1940.