- Introduced in 1982, the Patek Philippe reference 3796 is a descendant of the reference 96, the first and original Calatrava from the 1930s. In production until 1999, the 3796 is characterized by its “neo-vintage” design which held on to the small size of the original Calatrava. Both measuring at 31mm in diameter, the two references look almost identical on the wrist with the classical three-part case featuring a flat polished bezel atop a brushed middle case extended by the simple flat downward-curving lugs.

- The reference 3796 comes in many variations across the different case metals, and the present specimen boasts a rare and mesmerizing dial configuration characterised by diamond-set hour markers that are set against a white ivory dial. Baguette-cut diamonds are positioned at the 3, 9, and 12 o’clock, amidst the rest of the brilliant-cut diamonds. This is balanced by the subsidiary second at the 6 o’clock, with simple black markers and a leaf-style hand. The dial is beautifully swept over by the iconic dauphine hands for the hours and minutes, emanating a timeless elegance and understated refinement overall. The lower-case Greek letter sigma beside the "Swiss" signature at the bottom of the dial further indicates that the hands and hour markers of the watch are made of solid gold.

- The present timepiece is powered by the manual calibre 215 PS stamped with the Geneva Seal, attesting to the quality of the decoration and finishing of the movement in accordance with the highest standards of Genevan watchmaking.

- Offered in exceptional overall condition and delivered with a Patek Philippe Extract from the Archive confirming date of manufacture of the present timepiece in 1993, the present timepiece is a rare gem, and an enchanting find not to be missed by the discerning collectors.