Patek Philippe

johnswatch1
275

• Show profile
• Show other posts

The start of my ref 96 restoration project..

I finally pulled the trigger and I have a ref 96 on its way to me.  For such an iconic reference there's surprisingly little detail that I've been able to dig up on the internet.  I'm therefore looking to you - yes you - for help, guidance and positive reinforcement.

The watch does not come with the original strap, spring bars or buckle so I'm on a mission to replace them.

Does anyone have pictures of what the yellow gold buckles from around 1944 would look like?  Would the spring bars have been 18k gold too?

Finally, is there a decent book which would have this sort of info in it? 

I'm still undecided whether to go for a full factory restoration or to do it myself.  I know the ideal is to let Geneva do it but I'm rather keen on having a go myself.  Worst case scenario I can always send it off to patek anyway.

As a reward for all your help I'll post glorious high definition pictures of the whole restoration process! 

Here's one of the seller's pics.