Important Watches

Patek Philippe & Co.

Calatrava, Reference 96 | A stainless steel wristwatch, Made in 1944

Auction Closed

October 21, 07:40 AM GMT

Estimate

120,000 - 200,000 HKD

Lot Details

Description

Patek Philippe & Co.

Calatrava, Reference 96

A stainless steel wristwatch, Made in 1944

Dial: silvered

Calibre: cal. 12-120 mechanical, 18 jewels

Movement number: 925’504

Case: stainless steel, snap on case back

Case number: 630’325

Closure: unsigned brown leather strap and stainless steel Patek Philippe buckle

Size: 30.5 mm diameter

Signed: case, dial and movement

Accessories: Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming the production of the present watch in 1944 and its subsequent sale on February 19th, 1945

The reference 96, though humble and demure in appearance and size, is one of Patek Philippe’s most historically significant wristwatches, and marked a series of firsts for the brand. At the time of its inception, the prestigious maison was under severe financial difficulties, and was eventually bought out by the Stern family. Their first order of business was to streamline production. This resulted in the release of their first ever serially produced wristwatch, and their first ever wristwatch to be given a reference number: the present 96. Furthermore, housed within the landmark reference was Patek Philippe’s first in house calibre, the 12-120.

百達翡麗 Calatrava 型號96

精鋼腕錶，1944年製

附帶後補資料庫精粹

Please note that the movement has not been tested for the accuracy of time and may need a service at the buyer's expense.

Sotheby's does not guarantee the future working of the movement and we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. You are advised that watch straps or bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator or crocodile) are not sold with the watch and we reserve the right to remove these straps or bands prior to shipping. Furthermore, the watch may not come with its original manufacturers strap or band.

Prospective bidders should review the Conditions of Business, Authenticity Guarantee, the Guide for Prospective Buyers, and any Important Notice in the sale catalogue.

"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. All dimensions in catalogue descriptions are approximate. Condition reports may not specify mechanical replacements or imperfections to the movement, case, dial, pendulum, separate base(s) or dome. Watches in water-resistant cases have been opened to examine movements but no warranties are made that the watches are currently water-resistant. Please note that we do not guarantee the authenticity of any individual component parts, such as wheels, hands, crowns, crystals, screws, bracelets and leather bands, since subsequent repairs and restoration work may have resulted in the replacement of original parts. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue. In particular, please note it is the purchaser's responsibility to comply with any applicable import and export matters, particularly in relation to lots incorporating materials from endangered species.NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

**Please be advised that bands made of materials derived from endangered or otherwise protected species (i.e. alligator and crocodile) are not sold with the watches and are for display purposes only. We reserve the right to remove these bands prior to shipping."