Manufacturer: Patek Philippe Year: 1960 Reference No: 96 Movement No: 728'754 Case No: 310'410 Model Name: Calatrava Material: 18K yellow gold Calibre: Manual, cal. 12-400, 18 jewels Bracelet/Strap: Leather Clasp/Buckle: 14K yellow gold pin buckle Dimensions: 31mm Diameter Signed: Case, dial and movement signed Accessories: Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in 1960 with Breguet numerals and its subsequent sale on February 24, 1960.
Catalogue Essay
Sophisticated and elegant, Patek Philippe’s reference 96 is the perfect example of a timeless design.
First manufactured in 1932, this model, with its long downturned lugs and large flat bezel, remains relevant over 80 years later.
In production until 1973, the reference 96 is a stalwart in Patek Philippe’s collection. It is the first Calatrava model that Patek Philippe ever produced, ushering in a new era for both the firm and the dress wristwatch. It defined the Calatrava “style”while also being the first model to introduce numbered references to Patek Philippe’s timepieces.
Throughout its production cycle, many variations were made, with a diverse range of dials that collectors until today enjoy discovering. Especially sought after are those with Breguet numerals such as the present example.
In overall very attractive condition, the present lot will appeal to the collector interested in minimalistic designs.
Since its founding in 1839, this famous Geneva-based firm has been surprising its clientele with superbly crafted timepieces fitted with watchmaking's most prestigious complications. Traditional and conservative designs are found across Patek Philippe's watches made throughout their history — the utmost in understated elegance.
Well-known for the Graves Supercomplication — a highly complicated pocket watch that was the world’s most complicated watch for 50 years — this family-owned brand has earned a reputation of excellence around the world. Patek's complicated vintage watches hold the highest number of world records for results achieved at auction compared with any other brand. For collectors, key models include the reference 1518, the world's first serially produced perpetual calendar chronograph, and its successor, the reference 2499. Other famous models include perpetual calendars such as the ref. 1526, ref. 3448 and 3450, chronographs such as the reference 130, 530 and 1463, as well as reference 1436 and 1563 split seconds chronographs. Patek is also well-known for their classically styled, time-only "Calatrava" dress watches, and the "Nautilus," an iconic luxury sports watch first introduced in 1976 as the reference 3700 that is still in production today.