Patek Philippe

Stallone The Auction, Los Angeles, 18-20 December 2015, lot 89159

In 1932, the world was introduced to a gentlemen’s dress watch that will go on to define all dress watches. With the introduction of the Reference 96, Patek Philippe unveiled a timeless time only wristwatch that went on to set the benchmark for dress watches in the decades to come with its modern and understatedly luxurious design that addresses both form and function. With time, the collection of beautiful, time only wristwatches by Patek that followed the form of the Reference 96 will go on to be named the Calatrava. 

Introduced in 2004, the Patek Philippe Reference 5196 is a modern incarnation of the timeless classic from the Calatrava family that closest resembles the Reference 96 that started it all. At 37 mm, the 5196 took the place of the smaller Reference 3796, and features tapered lugs that epitomized the Calatrava, along with the small seconds dial and pointed baton markers.

The timelessness of this design gave the Calatrava its lasting power. As of today, Calatrava, is the oldest collection still available in the Patek Philippe catalogue since the brand’s inception.

The present 5196 is doubly special not only as one of the most iconic dress watches of all time, but also because of its incredible provenance from the legendary actor and watch collector Sylvester Stallone.

We are pleased to offer this timepiece from one of the most iconic movie stars of all time in exceptional condition, accompanied by its Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives and a Letter of Authenticity signed by Sly himself.