Passions Watch Exchange

About This Watch

Vintage. No box or paper and archive will be applied upon sale.

We are delighted to present you this precious Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref.96 in Stainless Steel. Any Patek Philippe collector will know that Steel is the most desirable alloy from this watch maker and legend has it that only one was produced for every 250 pieces in gold. This is no ordinary Calatrava and a transitional model that bears Ref.2457, stamped next to 96 on the inner cover and 2457 was for the sweep center seconds model which is our watch here.

This watch is meant for the most demanding vintage collector who wants nothing but the best. This Calatrava is a nearly 70years old and presents very well, showing little wear and it is of course polished over the decades but the profile remain correct with thick lugs and edgy corners.

The case was made by Francois Borgel denoted by the FB logo stamped on the inner back cover. Francois Borgel was a specialist in waterproof cases and traces it's history to 1891 when they filed their first patent for a waterproof pocket watch. They were hired by Patek Philippe to create the cases for the Ref.96 which they of course subsequently made many important models for the watch maker and in particularly the waterproof cased Ref.1463 Chronograph with tasti tondi pushers.

The 27SC (SC meaning Seconds Centrale or central second) movement features a sweep center seconds and the total production was 12,879 pieces between 1949 to 1970. This particular movement was finished to the highest standards and stamped with double Geneva Hallmark seals. It is further polished with Côtes de Genève, adjusted to 5 positions, temperatures and Isochronism and a fine swan-neck regulator completes it.

The original silvered dial shows some light patina which adds to the authenticity and is remarkable for the age. This is due to the "indelible dial" which is an engraved plate then fired enamelling, brushed, silvered, lacquered & finally applied batons. A tedious process that seals the delicate markings forever vs a conventional printed dial.

The Ref.96 Calatrava traces its roots to 1932 and was in production up to 1973. This was the most important model in Patek Philippe's collection and responsible for the revival of the company with sales that saw them through the difficult Great Depression in the late 1930s. The flat, polished bezel on a round case with downturned lugs are the unmistakable features of this model and the quintessential identity for the brand throughout 20th century and even today.

A rare opportunity not to be missed. Steel Calatravas are very rare watches with only a few limited editions that were made in the later 20th century. There are no regular production of steel Calatrava for decades since. The originals like this are often found to be in very tired condition with poor dials, badly corroded cases & discoloured movements so to find one in this nearly mint condition is a treasure indeed. It takes about 23+/- turns on the crown to a full wind and watch is keeping time. The watch is sold with an original strap and signed steel buckle.

Please feel free to visit us in the Marina Square gallery in Sinagpore to view this watch.

Further 3% discount for cash payment.