1996 Patek Philippe Calatrava Salmon Dial - Box and Papers (Ref. 3796S)
- Worth A Read
- Specifications
- Condition
History and Significance
The reference 3796 is often considered one of the last truly traditional Calatrava references before case sizes and design language began to shift. At 31mm, it stays faithful to the original Calatrava proportions that defined the model for decades. Thin, restrained, and purpose-built as a dress watch, it reflects Patek Philippe at its most classical.
This particular example takes that foundation a step further. The “S” designation indicates the limited-edition model, which also has a sapphire caseback, not standard across all 3796 production. That detail alone makes it more interesting from a collector standpoint, offering a view into the manual wind caliber that is typically hidden behind a solid back on earlier references.
The standout here is the dial. Salmon dials from Patek Philippe are already uncommon, but this Japan-exclusive configuration adds another layer of rarity. The tone is soft and even, paired with faceted applied markers and dauphine hands that catch light in a very subtle way. Combined with the limited production and complete set, it sits firmly in the category of watches that collectors actively search for rather than casually come across.
Writer’s Thoughts
This is a watch where everything comes together perfectly. The size, the dial color, and the proportions all feel very intentional and very Patek. It’s also one of those pieces that only really makes sense once you’ve handled a few Calatravas and understand how uncommon this configuration is. The salmon dial gives it just enough personality without taking away from how traditional it is. Having the full set with the original white gold buckle is a big plus here, too.
Our Promise
Every watch is thoroughly vetted, carefully described with complete transparency, and guaranteed authentic. Each piece is offered in honest condition, ensuring collectors receive a timepiece that reflects both originality and integrity.
Brand: Patek Philippe
Model: Calatrava (Ref. 3796S)
Year: 1996
Case Material: White gold
Case Size: 30.5mm
Dial: Salmon dial with applied markers
Movement: Manual wind Patek Philippe caliber 215 PS
Strap/Bracelet: Leather strap
Buckle/Clasp: Original Patek Philippe white gold buckle
Contents: Complete set with box, papers, and accessories
Case: The case is in excellent condition with light signs of wear, appearing well-preserved with strong lines.
Dial: Dial is clean and even with no visible imperfections; salmon tone remains consistent throughout.
Hands: Clean with no visible wear.
Crystal: Sapphire crystal is clean with no scratches.
Strap/Bracelet: Strap is new with no wear; original white gold buckle included.
1996 Patek Philippe Calatrava Salmon Dial - Box and Papers (Ref. 3796S)
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All our watches are carefully inspected to insure and guarantee the authenticity.
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- Worth A Read
- Specifications
- Condition
History and Significance
The reference 3796 is often considered one of the last truly traditional Calatrava references before case sizes and design language began to shift. At 31mm, it stays faithful to the original Calatrava proportions that defined the model for decades. Thin, restrained, and purpose-built as a dress watch, it reflects Patek Philippe at its most classical.
This particular example takes that foundation a step further. The “S” designation indicates the limited-edition model, which also has a sapphire caseback, not standard across all 3796 production. That detail alone makes it more interesting from a collector standpoint, offering a view into the manual wind caliber that is typically hidden behind a solid back on earlier references.
The standout here is the dial. Salmon dials from Patek Philippe are already uncommon, but this Japan-exclusive configuration adds another layer of rarity. The tone is soft and even, paired with faceted applied markers and dauphine hands that catch light in a very subtle way. Combined with the limited production and complete set, it sits firmly in the category of watches that collectors actively search for rather than casually come across.
Writer’s Thoughts
This is a watch where everything comes together perfectly. The size, the dial color, and the proportions all feel very intentional and very Patek. It’s also one of those pieces that only really makes sense once you’ve handled a few Calatravas and understand how uncommon this configuration is. The salmon dial gives it just enough personality without taking away from how traditional it is. Having the full set with the original white gold buckle is a big plus here, too.
Our Promise
Every watch is thoroughly vetted, carefully described with complete transparency, and guaranteed authentic. Each piece is offered in honest condition, ensuring collectors receive a timepiece that reflects both originality and integrity.
Brand: Patek Philippe
Model: Calatrava (Ref. 3796S)
Year: 1996
Case Material: White gold
Case Size: 30.5mm
Dial: Salmon dial with applied markers
Movement: Manual wind Patek Philippe caliber 215 PS
Strap/Bracelet: Leather strap
Buckle/Clasp: Original Patek Philippe white gold buckle
Contents: Complete set with box, papers, and accessories
Case: The case is in excellent condition with light signs of wear, appearing well-preserved with strong lines.
Dial: Dial is clean and even with no visible imperfections; salmon tone remains consistent throughout.
Hands: Clean with no visible wear.
Crystal: Sapphire crystal is clean with no scratches.
Strap/Bracelet: Strap is new with no wear; original white gold buckle included.