Patek Philippe: Experts in the exquisite
By Sarah Jayne Potter | 2 minute read
Patek Philippe is known for creating complications that are not only incredible feats of watchmaking, but also take your breath away with the grandeur of their design. Striking in more than one sense of the word, the Minute Repeater Tourbillon’s open-worked architecture reveals the mesmerizing movement of its hammer and gongs. Patek Philippe has been synonymous with the Minute Repeater ever since the brand released its first version in 1924.
However, the mechanism that powers this work of genius is centuries old, famed for providing an aural indication of the time upon demand, with hammers chiming the gongs to provide notes reminiscent of a traditional cathedral clock. A star attraction of Patek Philippe’s collections since its first appearance in 1923, the Split-Seconds Chronograph has been given a blue-toned makeover in its new iteration. Originally launched at Baselworld in 2015, the 5370P was an instant hit, and the new navy uniform has further enhanced its appeal. The Grand Feu enamel dial is indicated by the discreet ‘Email’ - French for enamel - below the six o’clock marker.
Since 2011, Patek Philippe’s Perpetual Calendar Chronograph collection has been led by Ref. 5270, and this latest release displays the watch cased in yellow gold – the first time that this reference has featured the tone. With its vintage-inspired accents, classic styling and recognizable architecture of the brand, this piece is sure to remain elegant for decades to come.
INSIDE OUT - pictured above
The mechanics of the Ref. 5303 Minute Repeater Tourbillon have remained the same, but Patek Philippe’s latest interpretation of the design is a modern masterpiece, allowing the tourbillon and the 356 parts of the movement to be admired from all angles.
DRESSED IN BLUE – above left
The Ref. 5370P Split-Seconds Chronograph retains its traditional design and hand-wound mechanism, but matching a gorgeous Grand Feu blue enamel dial to a dusky blue leather strap gives it a contemporary edge.
AS GOOD AS IT LOOKS – above right
Based on an iconic design from Patek Philippe’s vaults, the Ref.5270 first appeared in 2011, and was the brand’s first perpetual calendar chronograph to boast an in-house movement. In 2020, it made its first appearance in yellow gold.
