5196G Accessibility

[Guybrush]

Still trying to get my head around the Patek world (as I'm considering moving on one). Is this reference (the 5196 in wg) a piece I'm likely to find in stock at an AD? And given that it's not one of the super-hot sporty models, is it one I'd be likely to get to buy with essentially no prior history? (I mean, a $1k Tag and an Omega service, but that's it.)

I know this is a question for the AD, really, but since I'm still mulling options I'm not quite ready to ask, and hypothetical availability is one of my considerations right now.

Thanks for any guidance!

Also looking at pre-owned options (maybe from Michael Ashton or DavidSW) for a model with a display caseback...

[MadSpaniard]

I own the 5196G, received delivery from AD a little over 1 year ago (just before the pandemic production freeze). In my case, my AD didn't have it in stock so I placed an order and it took around 7 months to arrive.

I don't know about stock at ADs these days, but in the 2019 to early 2020 timeframe it seemed the 5196G was fairly scarce at ADs (but seemingly not the J and R versions, I saw those at a few ADs). All 3 versions were available at various gray dealers (the J and R again seemingly more common). I wanted to buy new from AD, and was in no hurry, so I ordered one, and received what I thought was a reasonable discount as well.

I don't think you need a history with an AD for the 5196. Simply decide which AD you want to deal with, be sincere with them, and expect the same in return.

[Guybrush]

Thank you!

[azizu]

I believe you can definitely buy a 5196G from an AD without prior history. It is truly the entry model and most of the time ADs have it on display.
In some cases the J (yellow gold) is priced slightly less than the G (white gold) since it seems that people prefer WG.
if the AD doesn't have it in stock you can flat out ask him based on his allocation when one will arrive? and you can reserve it for you.
now having said that, have you considered the 6119R?
it is a more modern design, with new upgraded movement and very importantly 60 hours power reserve which is very helpful in a manual wound watch?

[Guybrush]

Thanks for your reply. The 6119 is gorgeous but I don’t think I’m a fan of the hobnail style bezel. (I should probably see one in person before I decide.)

I called the AD, was totally candid, and he took my info and said he’d reach out when a 5196g comes in. Didn’t sound like there was a waitlist or anything. So I guess we’ll see. Another AD in the area said pretty flat out no—that it’s a “hot” model and not something I’d be able to get. Didn’t really feel like he was taking me seriously, though.

I’ll probably end up buying pre-owned from a TS if the first AD doesn’t deliver within a few months.

[azizu]

Originally Posted by Guybrush

Thanks for your reply. The 6119 is gorgeous but I don’t think I’m a fan of the hobnail style bezel. (I should probably see one in person before I decide.)

I called the AD, was totally candid, and he took my info and said he’d reach out when a 5196g comes in. Didn’t sound like there was a waitlist or anything. So I guess we’ll see. Another AD in the area said pretty flat out no—that it’s a “hot” model and not something I’d be able to get. Didn’t really feel like he was taking me seriously, though.

I’ll probably end up buying pre-owned from a TS if the first AD doesn’t deliver within a few months.

yeah, ADs used to know their allocation every year in Basel. they would roughly know what they are getting that year and when.
with all due respect for the second AD, go with the AD that showed interest to serve you.
i used to own a 3919J with hobnail bezel, think of it like the Rolex DJ flutted bezel.....looks really nice in reality

[jon_jon]

AD inventory can vary, so calling a few different ADs may be reasonable. Also depending on where you live, if you can visit an AD, it is different from contacting them via phone or email. It shows more genuine interest when a potential customer takes the time to visit in person.

[alphadweller]

Shouldn't be an issue. I was offered a 5296G-010 last year and my small 4 yrs old purchase history had been deleted from their records.

[David001]

It's one of those watches that you can just walk in and buy, if they have it on the shelf.

They are also available in new condition from grey sellers for a good discount, so if you want one they're not terribly difficult to get, but ADs only tend to get 2-3 a year according to the AD I spoke to.

Anyone that likes Patek should have at least one Calatrava, it's the essence of PP and an absolute icon.

[dannyfernandez]

should be fairly easy. great watch by the way

[watchesinheaven]

I have a 5196J and got it from an AD. It is not a hot model but was very difficult to source for some same reason. I recommend going with the AD who showed interest. You should pay a visit. It is nice to get a first watch with your name on the PP paper.