PATEK PHILIPPE | CALATRAVA, REF 96STAINLESS STEEL WRISTWATCHMADE IN 1937

Dial: silveredCalibre: cal.12-120 PS manual winding, 18 jewelsMovement number: 827'710 Case: stainless steel, snap-on back Case number: 614'759Dimensions: 30.5 mmSigned: case, dial and movement Accessories: Patek Philippe Certificate of Origin and Extract from the Archives confirming date of sale on August 3rd, 1937

MVT: running at the time of cataloguing CASE: in attractive condition, retaining sharp lines and nice proportions. The case bears light scuffing throughout with some scratches to the back and some abrasions to the edges. The inner-caseback displays the François Borgel (F.B) case mark and there are some minor signs of corrosion visible inside the case and underneath the bezel. This watch is in very attractive and original condition. DIAL: in very good condition with minor surface blemishes visible with the naked eye. The indexes with fine surface marks and some oxidation. 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."

The reference 96 can be divided into three series, and the present lot is an early example of the 2nd series, produced between 1935 and 1953. 

The stainless steel case was made by Taubert and bearing his mark 'FB' stamped on the inside case back. This watch makes a great addition to one's collection and comes with its Certificate of Origin as well as an Extract from the Archives.