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Lot Essay
Accompanied by a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives confirming production of the present watch in platinum with diamond hour markers in 1951 and its subsequent sale on October 10th of the following year. Further accompanied by a Patek Philippe presentation box.
The present example of reference 96 is the exclusive and rare “cocktail” version of this landmark model. Distinguished by the platinum case and diamond hour markers, this iteration can be considered one of the highest pinnacles of watchmaking elegance. The fancy diamond-set numerals are counterbalanced by the conservative diameter, and the case realized in the most noble among precious metals is a detail known only to the wearer. In pure Patek Philippe style, this timepiece is not intended as a means to flaunt one’s status and wealth by excessive decorations or over-the-top design. Back then, as it is today, the Maison’s goal was to provide the best of the technology and design available on the market, and to make them as elegant and refined as possible. The fact that this timepiece is still as captivating and timeless as it was when first designed, proves without a doubt the success of this approach to watchmaking.
Fresh to market, the exquisite conservation state of this timepiece allows the beholder to admire a truly unadulterated version of this unrivalled design: the case and lugs are full, the hallmarks on the band and under the lug as crisp as ever, and the unrestored dial fully conveys the charm and refined sophistication of this masterpiece from the golden age of horology.
The present example of reference 96 is the exclusive and rare “cocktail” version of this landmark model. Distinguished by the platinum case and diamond hour markers, this iteration can be considered one of the highest pinnacles of watchmaking elegance. The fancy diamond-set numerals are counterbalanced by the conservative diameter, and the case realized in the most noble among precious metals is a detail known only to the wearer. In pure Patek Philippe style, this timepiece is not intended as a means to flaunt one’s status and wealth by excessive decorations or over-the-top design. Back then, as it is today, the Maison’s goal was to provide the best of the technology and design available on the market, and to make them as elegant and refined as possible. The fact that this timepiece is still as captivating and timeless as it was when first designed, proves without a doubt the success of this approach to watchmaking.
Fresh to market, the exquisite conservation state of this timepiece allows the beholder to admire a truly unadulterated version of this unrivalled design: the case and lugs are full, the hallmarks on the band and under the lug as crisp as ever, and the unrestored dial fully conveys the charm and refined sophistication of this masterpiece from the golden age of horology.