Dial: silvered, diamond indexes Calibre: cal. 12'''120 manual winding, 18 jewels Movement number: 964'594 Case: platinum, engraved snap-on back Case number: 302'002 Closure: Patek Philippe crocodile strap Dimensions: 30.6 mm Signed: case, dial and movement Accessories: Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming date of sale on November 28th, 1949

The reference 96 was launched in 1932, the same year that Charles and Jean Stern purchased Patek Philippe & Cie. It was the first Calatrava model, and also marks the beginning of the referencing system for the distinguished brand. To this day it is an iconic model, and the 30.6 mm case truly portrays the understated elegance and taste of its time period. Produced over several decades and in four different series, this reference was discontinued in 1973 and finally replaced in 1982 with reference 3796. 

This particular lot was manufactured in 1949 and belongs to the second series equipped with calibre 12'''120, produced until 1953. Thanks to its diamond-set dial, this watch appears more impressive on the wrist than the plainer versions of the same reference. The platinum case is still nicely sharp with crisp hallmarks to the band, overall making this an very attractive timepiece.