Patek Philippe Calatrava

Some watches define an era — and then quietly transcend it. Introduced in 1932, the Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 96 wasn’t just a new model; it was a manifesto. Guided by the Bauhaus ideal that form should follow function, Patek stripped away everything unnecessary and arrived at something close to perfection: a watch that embodied simplicity, proportion, and purpose.

At the time, Patek Philippe was evolving into a true manufacture. The Ref. 96 was among the first to house the brand’s own in-house movement, the hand-wound Calibre 12-120 — a beautifully constructed engine with finger bridges, a swan-neck regulator, and all the hand-finished details that made Patek the benchmark of fine watchmaking. It was elegance by way of engineering, restrained but unmistakably luxurious.

This particular example, dating to the 1930s, features a 31mm stainless steel case with a silvered dial, applied indices, and a later 'dauphine' handset — the definition of understated style. Inside ticks the Calibre 12-120, visible only to those who know what’s worth looking for. The proportions are perfect, the presence quietly confident — a reminder that true design doesn’t shout, it endures. Accompanied by an official Extract from the Patek Philippe Archives (on order), it offers both provenance and peace of mind to the discerning collector.

For collectors, the Ref. 96 is the origin point — the watch that launched the Calatrava line and set the tone for nearly every dress watch that followed. It’s rare, timeless, and remarkably pure. Everything you need, nothing you don’t. 

And that, in the world of Patek Philippe, is about as good as it gets.

Founded in 1839, Patek Philippe is one of the oldest watch manufacturers in the world with an uninterrupted watchmaking history. Few international luxury brands carry the gravitas of their name, and for good reason. The firm's commitment to excellence in horological manufacture is unflinching, and their track record of innovation in design without peer. They continue to lead the industry, and even their fiercest competitors have nothing but the utmost respect for the company.

From the simple elegance of their Calatrava line to the stunning study in miniaturization that is reference 1518 perpetual calendar to the modern reference 5750P chiming watch, Patek’s catalog is chock full of some of the most elegant and complicated timepieces ever made. Family-owned and completely independent, the firm has the freedom to do what it wants — such as discontinue one of the world’s most beloved steel luxury sport watches, the reference 5711 — when it wants.

Owning a Patek Philippe is for many the ultimate goal of timepiece collecting, and for a certain type, the only timepieces they collect. Whichever way you look at it, there is no questioning the elegance of design, superlative manufacture of their cases and movements, or the sheer elegance and emotion that comes from owning one.

Of course for a brand that is steeped in heritage, we are told “You never actually own a Patek Philippe…”

Well, you know the rest.

Our Pledge

Analog:Shift stands behind the authenticity of our products in perpetuity.

Condition

Since our pieces are vintage or pre-owned, please expect wear & patina from usage and age. Please read each item description and examine all product images.

Warranty

We back each Analog:Shift vintage timepiece with a two-year mechanical warranty from the date of purchase.

International Buyers

Please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.

All of our watches include complementary insured shipping within the 50 states.

Most of our products are on hand and will ship directly from our headquarters in New York City. In some cases, watches will be shipped directly from one of our authorized partners.

We generally ship our products via FedEx, fully insured, within 5 business days of purchase. An adult signature is required for receipt of all packages for insurance purposes. Expedited shipping is available at an additional cost. We are also happy to hand deliver your purchase in Manhattan or you may pick it up at our showroom.

Returns must be sent overnight or by priority international delivery, fully insured and paid for by the customer. A restocking fee may apply. Watches must be returned in the same condition as initially shipped.

We welcome international buyers, please contact us prior to purchase for additional details on shipping and payment options.