Description:
The Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 96 is a true landmark in the history of wristwatch design and a timeless symbol of refined elegance. Introduced in 1932, it was among the very first models created under the Stern family’s stewardship of Patek Philippe, marking the beginning of a new era for the Maison. Produced until 1973, the Ref. 96 appeared in numerous configurations of case materials and dial designs, reflecting the evolving tastes and style codes of each decade.
With its 31mm case, perfectly proportioned for the era, the Ref. 96 epitomized the purest essence of the Calatrava dress watch: understated, balanced, and eternally sophisticated. While the reference was produced predominantly in yellow gold, rare examples were made in pink gold, white gold, and in the rarest instances, platinum and stainless steel — as seen in this remarkable piece.
This particular example, manufactured in 1937 and accompanied by its Extract from the Archives confirming its production and sale, features an exceptionally rare dial configuration: applied Arabic numerals combined with black hour markers — a highly unusual and desirable pairing. The dial is further elevated by the retailer signature “Eberhard Milano”.
Powering this timepiece is the renowned 12-120 manually wound caliber, with subsidiary seconds at 6 o’clock, underscoring the classic layout of this reference. The watch remains in outstanding condition, retaining its sharp lugs and full case proportions and the dial displays a hard enamel signature that is raised and visible, a testament to its careful preservation over the decades.