Introduced in 1932, the Patek Philippe Calatrava ref. 96 established a design philosophy that would influence the manufacture's dress watches for generations. Its restrained round case, integrated lugs and elegantly balanced dial reflected the growing influence of modernist design, offering a departure from the elaborate decorative styles of the preceding decades. The reference remained in production for more than four decades, during which Patek Philippe explored numerous variations in dial design, case materials and movements. Although most examples were produced in precious metals, a relatively small number were manufactured in stainless steel, making these watches particularly interesting to collectors today. Among the most desirable configurations are those fitted with applied Breguet numerals, whose distinctive typography adds an additional layer of refinement to the Calatrava's otherwise understated design.

Manufactured in 1945 and sold on 28 August of the same year, this stainless steel ref. 96 represents a particularly compelling combination of case material and dial configuration. Its silvered dial features applied steel Breguet numerals, complemented by radium-filled hands and luminous plots positioned along the outer railway minute track. These details give the watch a subtly more purposeful character than the conventional Calatrava, combining the elegance of its applied numerals with the practicality of luminous indications. The 31mm stainless steel case retains the beautifully proportioned architecture of the original ref. 96, while the manually wound calibre 12-120 provides the traditional mechanical foundation. Importantly, the accompanying Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives explicitly confirms the silvered dial with applied steel Breguet numerals and radium, establishing the original specification of this unusual configuration. For collectors of vintage Patek Philippe, the combination of a steel case, Breguet numerals and documented radium dial makes this a particularly noteworthy example of the celebrated reference.

Watch is in overall excellent condition. The stainless steel case is well defined, with surface scratches and small marks, as expected of a watch of this vintage. The case back shows some light pitting. The dial exhibits crazing across its original enameled surface and has developed a light brown hue from radium burn. The luminous hour plots have darkened, while the applied Breguet numerals show some tarnishing. The blued central hands retain their original radium luminous material. Signature is strong and raised. The crystal shows some crazing and surface scratches. It is fitted with a black leather strap and stainless steel pin buckle. Comes with original box, Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming the Breguet dial, and accompanying correspondence from the Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives team.

Please Note: Due to CITES considerations, if the watch is to be shipped outside of the USA, the exotic skin strap will have to be removed.