PATEK PHILIPPE ROSE GOLD CALATRAVA WITH BLACK DIAL REF. 96R

The ref. 96 was the classic time only Calatrava made by Patek Philippe from 1932 until 1973. During this production run, many case and dial options were offered, and perhaps the rose gold and black dial  is the most elegant and beautiful combination. This example has recently surfaced from the original owner’s family in Spain and is preserved in remarkable condition for its age. The black dial is elegantly aged and retains a rich dark color and has developed some light spotting. The original gold signature is nearly perfectly preserved as well as the subsidiary minute track and outer railroad track. The case is equally impressive in its originality with only light signs of polishing over its 80 years life. The side case hallmark is especially crips and a pleasure to see. The inside case back impressively shows nearly no signs of intervention and no service marks. Finally, the movement is twice stamped with the Geneva Seal and is a highly finished caliber 10-120. Lastly, the horological icing on the cake is that this watch retains its original Certificate of Origin from 1941, a document rarely seen with a watch from this era.