Patek Philippe

A quintessential expression of Patek Philippe’s restrained elegance, the reference 96 remains one of the most foundational wristwatches produced by any manufacture. Introduced in 1932 as the first Calatrava, it embodies the clean geometry and timeless proportions that would come to define the model line. While examples in precious metals were produced more frequently, stainless steel cases were always made in far smaller quantities, imbuing them with a distinct rarity and modern appeal. Within this already exclusive subset, the present watch is further elevated by its highly uncommon and desirable dial, featuring applied Breguet numerals paired with luminous hour markers and hands.

The condition of the present example is especially noteworthy. The stainless steel case remains full and sharply defined, with strong lugs and crisp edges that attest to careful preservation over the decades. The dial is equally appealing, displaying an attractive even surface that complements the applied numerals and luminous elements.

Beyond its technical and aesthetic appeal, the watch is distinguished by an engraving of considerable historical interest, linking it directly to the world of American publishing. The caseback bears the inscription: “Frank B. Hart – Affectionate Remembrance of Loyal Service to Popular Mechanics Magazine – 1909 – H.H. Windsor Jr. Press – 1944,” seemingly commemorating thirty-five years of service to the company. Popular Mechanics, founded in Chicago in 1902 and long associated with its founder Henry Haven Windsor and later his son H.H. Windsor Jr., was one of the most influential technical periodicals of the early twentieth century.

H.H. Windsor Jr. was known to turn to Patek Philippe for presentation watches. In 1949, he presented a reference 685 pink gold chronograph pocket watch to Roy B. Brown – another longtime Popular Mechanics employee marking 35 years of service. That watch sold at auction for CHF 43,750 in 2014. Windsor’s employees repaid the gesture in 1952, presenting him with a pink gold reference 1518 on the occasion of the 50th anniversary of Popular Mechanics. The H.H. Windsor Jr. reference 1518 would later achieve CHF 1,474,000 at auction in 2016.