Happy to add a 5196P to my humble collection.

Feb 08, 2022,07:09 AM
 

I was not expecting that.  I always think it's very handsome (thanks to the pictures our forum members kept posting and posioning me).  I was browsing around for another watch and accidentially spotted this beauty during the window shopping.  Full set, fair price, MINT condition, so here we go! 


My first impression is that this watch wears much much larger than its 37mm spec may suggest.  On the wrist it looks like a 39mm or even 40mm! I believe it's due to its narrow bezel, 21mm lug spacing, flat case construction and light coloured dial design. I imagine for most people this "enlarging illusion" is a huge plus but for me (with very tiny wrist) it's not the most attractive feature. Overall I would say it is not particular tiny wrist friendly despite its humble case size.   

But this enlarging illusion can be easily forgetten (or be forgiven) since its dial, and oh man, what a dial, is stunning to look at!!  Very smartly designed to hide the small second problem with cal. 215 (something I learnt from the forum members!) and finely executed.  Suddenly its pronouned wrist presence becomes an advantage!  

I am waiting for my XS strap to arrive so that I could really get a snug fit and be able to truly enjoy this watch! 

Thanks for reading and hope you enjoy the pics! 











More posts: 5196calatrava

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Congratulations !!

 
 By: dms : February 8th, 2022-07:42
This is a superb catch. Always loved this reference.

Yes, strange.

 
 By: amanico : February 9th, 2022-12:12

100% Agree.

 
 By: fmc000 : February 8th, 2022-16:58

The quintessential Calatrava.

 
 By: mrds : February 8th, 2022-08:36
Amazing how much elegance can be packed into a 37mm space!

Well put! Thanks!

 
 By: Musigny82 : February 9th, 2022-09:39

Congratulations on hitting on this beautiful Patek …

 
 By: Cpt Scarlet : February 8th, 2022-10:23
Enjoy and make happy memories.

Will do thank you!!

 
 By: Musigny82 : February 9th, 2022-09:40

Congratulations and welcome to the 5196p club.

 
 By: Miles_151 : February 8th, 2022-10:37
It’s an absolutely mesmerising watch for all the reasons you state. This is a purchase you will not regret and your children if you have them will certainly be glad you made. Enjoy and keep the pictures coming. M.

Thank you!

 
 By: Musigny82 : February 9th, 2022-09:40

The dial is an all-time great

 
 By: blau : February 8th, 2022-11:46
I agree exactly about the wearing size. I think it's the only 37mm watch I've ever worn that felt too big for me!

Thank you for your kind words!

 
 By: Musigny82 : February 9th, 2022-09:41

I am lucky, thank you!

 
 By: Musigny82 : February 9th, 2022-09:42

Nice find, congratulations. I like that dial,

 
 By: Thomas_3 : February 8th, 2022-13:57
clean and simple.

Thank you very much!

 
 By: Musigny82 : February 9th, 2022-09:42

A serendipitous encounter with an awesome PP Calatrava. Congrats on getting it.

 
 By: vitalsigns : February 8th, 2022-14:42
Pure and simple PP. And under-the-radar, just like I prefer. Cheers, John

Agree!!

 
 By: Musigny82 : February 9th, 2022-09:43

Congrats!

 
 By: Ted O : February 8th, 2022-14:43
Used to own one and very much enjoyed it at the time. Wears great in terms of size.

Thank you!!

 
 By: Musigny82 : February 9th, 2022-09:43

Just beautiful

 
 By: fmc000 : February 8th, 2022-16:58
Congrats!

Thanks a lot!!

 
 By: Musigny82 : February 9th, 2022-09:43

Thank you for that~

 
 By: Musigny82 : February 9th, 2022-09:44

great photos and congrats

 
 By: Francoamerican : February 8th, 2022-23:27
I was too hung up on the small movement size but now regret that sentiment

thanks - those are wise words!

 
 By: Francoamerican : February 9th, 2022-21:43

Big fan of this ref.

 
 By: TeutonicCarFan : February 8th, 2022-23:50
Always crossed my mind as something to add to the collection. Enjoy!

Thank you will do!

 
 By: Musigny82 : February 9th, 2022-09:44

Thanks for this great post and AMAZING photos.

 
 By: BuffaloWatch : February 9th, 2022-01:21
I have this watch and also, a small wrist. It does appear big for the reasons you say and maybe, too, because as a more formal watch you would think it should feel and fit smaller than it does. I've been thinking about changing out the dressy strap for so... 

You mean this?

 
 By: Musigny82 : February 9th, 2022-09:54
...  

Yes, that is really cool.

 
 By: BuffaloWatch : February 9th, 2022-13:13
Beside everything good that's been said about this watch, add "versatile" to the list.

Congratulations

 
 By: takman : February 9th, 2022-04:20
This one is a beauty and a keeper, nice photos too!

Thanks!

 
 By: Musigny82 : February 9th, 2022-09:54

Congrats

 
 By: Cookies : February 9th, 2022-15:35
It is so beautiful. Elegant and sleek.

Hi Nigel, 5196P is the epitome of Patek DNA !

 
 By: GLau : February 9th, 2022-19:41
ThIs reference is classy, a classic and understated. Great reference for Patek collectors to enjoy under the radar.

Sizing 5196

 
 By: Sadi  : February 9th, 2022-23:10
And what is your wrist size? If I may ask... mine is 16-16.5 cm and it wears perfectly!