Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 96

Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 96

Double-Signed Oscar Linke, Genova | 18k Yellow Gold | 1940

One of the most iconic references ever produced by Patek Philippe. This Ref. 96, manufactured and sold in 1940, represents the pure essence of the Calatrava philosophy: elegant proportions, timeless design, and uncompromising craftsmanship.

What sets this example apart is its exceptionally rare double-signed dial for Oscar Linke, Genova. While collectors are familiar with retailers such as Gübelin, Gobbi Milano, or Hausmann, watches signed by Oscar Linke appear only rarely on the market today. Active in Genoa from the early 20th century through the 1970s, Oscar Linke was a respected jeweler and Patek Philippe retailer, making surviving co-signed examples highly desirable among collectors.

The beautifully preserved light silvered dial features applied gold hour markers, small seconds at six o’clock, and the long hard-enamel signature “Patek Philippe & Co. Genève”, accompanied by the additional “Oscar Linke Genova” retailer signature.

Inside beats the legendary Caliber 12-120, one of Patek Philippe’s most celebrated hand-wound movements. The watch is housed in an 18k yellow gold case with snap-on caseback and retains a strong, clearly visible hallmark.

Accompanied by its Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives, confirming both manufacture and sale in 1940, this is the type of Calatrava that appeals to seasoned collectors: historically important, visually elegant, and rarely encountered.

Historic. Elegant. Exceptionally rare.
The kind of Patek Philippe that quietly tells a story.

Specifications

• Brand: Patek Philippe
• Model: Calatrava
• Reference: 96
• Year: Manufactured and sold in 1940
• Retailer Signature: Oscar Linke, Genova (double-signed dial)
• Case Material: 18k yellow gold
• Case Number: 296272
• Case Diameter: 30 mm
• Caseback: Snap-on caseback
• Movement: Manual-winding, Caliber 12-120
• Movement Number: 829774
• Dial: Light silvered dial with applied gold indices and small seconds
• Hands: Gold dauphine hands
• Strap: Leather strap
• Buckle: Gold-plated pin buckle
• Condition: Good vintage condition with honest signs of wear, strong visible hallmark
• Extract: Patek Philippe Extract from the Archives included (issued August 2025)
• Notes: Extremely rare Italian retailer signature from Oscar Linke of Genoa

WatchesOverWatches specializes in sourcing exceptional double-signed timepieces and this rare Oscar Linke Calatrava is exactly the kind of watch we love to discover.