64 Patek Philippe Tasteful and Sophisticated, Calatrava, Wristwatch in Platinum, With Silver Diamond-set Dial, Reference 96, With Extract from the Archives

Estimate: € 25.000 –⁠ 50.000

Model: Calatrava Reference: 96 Case Material: Platinum Bracelet Material: Leather Strap Year: 1953 Movement: Manual Caliber: 12-400 Case N°: 305518 Movement N°: 720809 Dimensions: 31 mm Signed: Dial, movement and case Accessories: Extract from the Archives Reference 96 such as 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 platinum: its three-body case with flat bezel, concave lugs and snap on the back is extremely well preserved with very sharp edges and no evident signs of wearing. The dial is silvered with applied diamond-set 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 as a true example for the category. Accompanied by a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in Platinum in 1953 and its subsequent sale on 11 August 1953.