1980's Patek Philippe Calatrava White Gold Ref. 3796

The Successor of the 96

It is not possible to not mention the Patek Philippe reference 96, when presenting the reference 3796. The 96 is to date the most iconic Calatrava of all times. With its very distinct size and design that was introduced in 1932 it is also one of the most popular pieces on the collectors’ market today. Despite a size of 31mm diameter the 96 has won the hearts of collectors and there are more collectors looking for the watch than great examples on the market.

The successor to the Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 96 is the Ref. 3796, introduced in 1982 and discontinued in 1999. This reference was designed to continue the legacy of the iconic Ref. 96 while updating it for a more modern era, both technically and aesthetically. 

The 3796 maintained the same design and compact case, but added the updated caliber 215 PS (petite seconds), a manual-wind Geneva Seal movement. Atelier Réunis made the case, Stern Frères the dial, and it maintained the classic Bauhaus form of the ref. 96. 

The ref. 3796 is typically found with a yellow gold case and a silver opaline dial with faceted indices and dauphine hands however the watch offered is a rare example manufactured in white gold. The audience accepted the 3796 very well as it represents the best of both worlds, the iconic design of the 96 paired with a modern technology giving the watch a quality that we are used to from contemporary watches.

The case is sharp and well defined bearing all hallmarks and a clean silhouette along the lines. Despite the size it is a solid case that is well noticeable on the wrist and when in hand. 

The dial is Silver with pointed and facetted baton indexes, the “sigma” signature at 6 o’clock indicates that the hour indexes are actually made of gold. A very clean and simple dial surface that is enhanced by the iconic minute track at the edge of the dial. The small seconds register at 6 o’clock beautifully balances the dial aesthetics.

The watch comes on a black Patek Philippe Croco strap bearing a white gold Patek pin buckle. It is equipped with a Sapphire crystal.

The 3796 is a great Calatrava for those who love the look and feel of the iconic 96 but want to wear their watch in the condition of a contemporary watch. A very attractive example in a great configuration in white gold on a black strap. We love the aesthetics, so timeless.