In production from 1932 until 1973, reference 96 was 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 manufacture and the dress wristwatch. It defined the Calatrava “style” while also being the first model to introduce numbered references to Patek Philippe’s timepieces.

Cased most often in yellow gold, the reference was also produced in pink gold, white gold and most exclusively, in stainless steel as well as platinum.

This timepiece is a superlative example. Preserved in exceptional condition, it showcases crisp lugs and full proportions. The dial displays a hard enamel signature that is raised and visible. Most impressively, it features raised Arabic and black hour markers - an incredibly rare combination. Furthermore, it was retailed at Eberhard in Milan, and displays the storied retailer's signature at 6 o'clock. To the best of our knowledge, the present watch is the only reference 96 to bear this particular combination of retailer signature and dial configuration.