Comments:
I don't really care its movement is too small, it is so cool!
I regret mine, but Past is the Past.
Best,
Nicolas
I never get bored with this
basic Calatrava.
New watches might come to my small watch box but this is one of those having a permanent place there when it's not on my wrist.
Best, Kari
We are just fine
and planning the next trip to London & Paris. We must pick up new cuff links fitting to my two Calatravas I posted today.
All the best! Kari
I changed to mine
a navy blue strap and a folding clasp. Now my 5196P is perfect.
Best, Kari
Me too ...
Alligator matte black with inner rubber custom made by Camille Fournet.
Best
Patrice
5196 P i my favourite Calatrava, with its pros and cons
I don't really care its movement is too small, it is so cool!
I regret mine, but Past is the Past.
Best,
Nicolas
I dream about 5153G
but with navy blue dial. I guess I must keep dreaming...
Best, Kari
This one is really lovely and even better in the metal....
definitely on my list.
Cheers
Francois
I don't think it's only the dial.
It's a combination of the metal, dial, slimness and right size. The watch screams style and quality.
Best, Kari
Very elegant
I have admired this watch since it was first introduced and struggled between the platinum version vs the white gold. The arabic numerals IMO make the dial so much more interesting than the simple makers though. Also I think the concentric rings in this version really help the overall layout. The weakness in the 5196 has always been the disproportionately small movement to case ratio forcing the subsecond dial too close to the center. I think this effect is least obvious in this platinum version and is the only 5196 I would consider.
After waiting for several months, my AD finally had one in inventory and I went cash in hand intent on purchase. Unfortunaltey for me the overall feel on the wrist seemed a little too flat even with the added heft of platinum. In the end I couldn't justify the retail price for this piece with a basic 215 movement without complication. Seeing your photos though makes me rethink my decision...
I agree.
But it's also great informal watch i.e. with jeans. I think one of the great things about 5196P that it feels correct with any kind of dress. And it is never drawing attention but if somebody looks closer, it becomes clear that this watch has that "something".
Best, Kari
Absolutely
I concur completely. I think one of the greatest things about the 5196P is its ability to dress up or dress down with equal aplomb. For a long time I thought this to be the pinnacle of the current calatrava offerings, and it may well be. It just felt a little too flat on my wrist when I finally had the chance to try in person.
Truly a magnificent watch by any standard, and I have often rethought my decision not to buy when I had the chance.
For me the fact that the watch is
flat, is just a great plus. It's a part of elegance and in my opinion a flat movement is also a complication. At least I hit a thick watch much easier to door frames and all kinds of stupid places.
Best, Kari
Wrong!
I am very easy to satisfy: I'm happy with the best. Furthermore, I am flexible: I do not require the absolute best, just best in its class.
Best, Kari