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The duality of Patek Philippe's Calatrava 6119
Jan 16, 2024,03:16 AM
Back in 2021 when PP released the 6119, I knew I wanted one. From launch pictures, I had set my sights on the 6119G, simply because it looked more dynamic. When I finally received my 6119G in Dec 2021, I was ecstatic! It was fantastic -- although modern at 39mm, it wore well on my 21cm wrist. It is a beautiful watch, but occasionally posed difficulties with capturing its allure on camera due to the incredibly reflective nature of the dial and hands. I suppose the lack of AR coating does not help either.
At the back of my head, I had always wondered... wondered just how different the 6119R would be.
Well, I have finally been able to get my hands on a 6119R (belongs to a friend and neighbour) without protective stickers. There's no surprise that the dial of the 6119G has a brushed texture... but little did I know that the 6119R had a subtle sheen to it. Visible only in certain light, I made it a point to try and capture it on camera. I suppose it is true after all, the G is indeed sportier and more dynamic, whilst the R is just classic, dressy Patek Philippe.
Btw, I have swapped out both the original PP straps (black alligator and brown alligator) for aftermarket ones, which I feel dress down the watches even more. This allows me to wear them... well, almost anywhere, really.