Patek Philippe Reference 96 in Platinum w/ Diamond Dial w/ Extract

The Patek Philippe reference 96 is not only among the iconic wristwatches of Patek Philippe, but also is recognized as leaving a monumental impact on the traditional wristwatch. While the Cartier Tank shaped the way we recognize rectangular timepieces, the same could be said about the reference 96. Although it was not the first round wristwatch, it set the standard with its attention to proportion and dimension.

Along with the venerable calibre 9-90, the reference 96 was among the first creations under the Stern family which focused the direction of the company towards wristwatches over pocket watches. The reference 96 would lay the foundation for what we know today as the “Calatrava” (both in relation to Patek Philippe and other manufacturers).

This particular reference 96 is an exceptional outlier from the conventional models due to the fact that it features a dial with diamond hour markers and platinum case. In addition to the early long signature (Patek, Philippe & Cie). These small details can be easily overlooked due to the emphatically darker dial, yet like many watches from Patek Philippe, the understated subtleties are truly what make the models special.

The platinum case has been polished in the past, but is attractive. The width is 30.5mm in diameter. It is powered by the calibre 12-120. The watch accompanies an Extract from the Archives. The watch dates to 1948 and was sold July 8th, 1948. It also comes with a platinum Patek Philippe buckle, made by Wenger, as well as a light blue Jean Rousseau strap..

(Item SBUXYT2903)

SOLD