Patek Philippe Calatrava 5196R-001 Rose Gold, Silver Dial

Opening Context
The Calatrava stands as the purest expression of Patek Philippe’s design philosophy, a lineage defined by proportion, restraint, and timeless clarity. The reference 5196 traces its roots directly to the celebrated ref. 96 of the 1930s, a watch that established the template for the modern dress watch. In the 5196R-001, that heritage is carried forward with subtle refinement, preserving the spirit of the original while meeting contemporary expectations of finish and wearability.

Why This Reference Matters
The 5196R-001 is widely respected for its fidelity to classical Calatrava principles. The silver opaline dial is understated and perfectly balanced, featuring applied rose gold index hour markers, sharp dauphine hands, and a small seconds sub-dial at 6 o’clock that anchors the composition. The manually wound calibre 215 PS is a key part of the watch’s appeal, valued for its slim profile, traditional construction, and beautifully restrained finishing. In rose gold, the reference gains warmth and softness, reinforcing its role as a true dress watch rather than a statement piece.

On the Wrist
At 37mm, the Calatrava 5196R-001 wears with ideal classical proportion. The rose gold case sits lightly and comfortably on the wrist, slipping easily under a cuff. Its presence is quiet and confident, never demanding attention but always rewarding a closer look. The dimensions feel intentional rather than conservative, especially for collectors who appreciate timeless sizing over trend-driven scale.

Condition & Transparency
This example features a 37mm 18K rose gold case paired with a silver opaline dial, fitted to a brown leather strap and secured by an 18K rose gold pin tang buckle. It is powered by the manually wound calibre 215 PS with an approximate 44-hour power reserve. Water resistance is rated to 30 meters. Any information regarding service history, box, or papers is disclosed clearly based on confirmed details, with no assumptions made where information is unavailable.

Why It Belongs in a Collection
The Calatrava 5196R-001 is ideal for collectors who value traditional watchmaking at its most distilled. It complements complicated Patek Philippe references by offering purity and balance, while standing confidently on its own as a cornerstone dress watch. Within a broader collection, it serves as a reminder that simplicity, when executed at the highest level, never dates.

Closing
The Patek Philippe Calatrava 5196R-001 represents the essence of understated elegance. For collectors drawn to proportion, manual winding rituals, and design that transcends era and trend, this reference remains one of the most honest and satisfying expressions of the Calatrava tradition.

Specifications

• Case Size: 37 mm
  
• Case Material: 18K Rose Gold
  
• Dial: Silver Opaline Dial with Applied Rose Gold Index Hour Markers and Dauphine Hands, Small Seconds Sub-dial at 6
  
• Strap: Brown Leather Strap with 18K Rose Gold Pin Tang Buckle
  
• Power Reserve: Approx. 44 Hours
  
• Water Resistance: 30 m
  
• Movement: Manual Wind (Calibre 215 PS)

Shipments are delivered under Delivered Duty Unpaid (DDU) terms, with duties and taxes payable by the recipient.