Buyers are advised that lots from outside the USA (Identified by an*) are subject to applicable import taxes and customs-related charges: If the lot is delivered within the USA: The applicable import taxes and duties are due on the hammer price plus the Buyer’s Premium, in addition to USD 180 for the termination of the temporary import, at the Buyer’s expense.
If the lot is delivered outside the USA: USD 180 for the termination of the temporary import is due, at the Buyer’s expense.
Grading System
Grade: AA
Very good
Case: 3-6
Good
Slightly oxidized
Movement: 3*
Good
Overhaul recommended, at buyer's expense
Dial: 3-6-01
Good
Slightly oxidized
HANDS Original
Brand Patek Philippe, Switzerland
Model Calatrava
Reference 96J
Year 1932
Movement No. 161 566
Case No. 294 412
Bracelet Leather bracelet
Caliber 12'' lever escapement
Diameter 31mm
Weight 35,75g
Accessories extrat of the archives and complete Tortella analysis
Notes
Fine and historically important 18K yellow gold manual-winding wristwatch, featuring a highly unusual silvered matte dial with subsidiary seconds, applied faceted gold indexes, distinctive double index at 12 o’clock, delicate dotted outer minute track and period-correct gold hands. Manufactured in 1932, the present watch dates from the very first year of production of the reference 96, Patek Philippe’s landmark early Calatrava.
According to an analysis by horological scholar and Patek Philippe specialist Dr. Marco Tortella, the watch displays a highly unusual combination of characteristics. Tortella particularly noted the unusual construction of the dial and its thick, faceted applied indexes, together with characteristics of the case consistent with very early production. More importantly, it is the combination of dial, indexes, hands, case and movement that distinguishes the present watch from known examples of the reference.
The Patek Philippe archives do not describe the original dial configuration, preventing definitive archival confirmation. However, extensive research has so far failed to identify another reference 96 with this exact configuration. A fascinating and highly distinctive example of one of Patek Philippe’s most historically important references.
