Patek Philippe Caliber 240 Q and 5140 Macro Photos

w220 · 2018-03-09T15:16:33Z

Explore macro photos of the Patek Philippe Caliber 240 Q and Ref. 5140. A detailed look at movement finishing and community discussion.

w220

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

68 replies38000 views11 photos

W220 presents a series of macro photographs showcasing the Patek Philippe Caliber 240 Q and the Ref. 5140. These detailed images invite a close examination of the movement's finishing, sparking a community discussion on the nuances of Patek Philippe's craftsmanship under magnification. The post serves as a visual deep dive into the intricate details often unseen by the naked eye.

68 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

Just some random 240Q and 5140 macros, for no particular reason.

About the Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Ref. 5140

The Patek Philippe Reference 5140 is a perpetual calendar wristwatch, succeeding the highly regarded Reference 3940. It maintains the classic Patek Philippe perpetual calendar layout, featuring day, date, month, leap year, and moon phase indications. The 5140 was introduced with a slightly larger case diameter than its predecessor, reflecting contemporary preferences while retaining a traditional aesthetic.

This reference is powered by the ultra-thin self-winding Caliber 240 Q, known for its micro-rotor construction which allows for a slender case profile. The movement provides a power reserve of 48 hours. The watch is presented in 18k white gold, rose gold, or yellow gold cases, measuring 39 mm in diameter, and is fitted with a sapphire crystal. It offers water resistance to 30 meters.

The 5140 appeals to collectors seeking a modern perpetual calendar with a direct lineage to Patek Philippe's established complications. Its production run from 2006 to 2019 saw various dial configurations, including opaline and silvery finishes. The watch is typically paired with a leather strap and a deployant clasp, consistent with Patek Philippe's classic offerings.

Specifications

Caliber: 240 Q

Case: 18k White Gold, Rose Gold, or Yellow Gold

Diameter: 39 mm

Dial: Opaline, Silvery

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The anglage on the Caliber 240 Q, particularly the bullnose, exhibits some chatter, suggesting areas for potential improvement in finishing, although overall Patek Philippe's polish work is commendable.
Historically, polishing was essential to de-burr metal edges to prevent interference with movement operation, but with modern CNC technology, anglage is now primarily decorative.
Some observers noted a perceived lack of hand-finishing or polishing on movement plates, dial apertures, and hands in the 5140, raising questions about the finishing standards for a QP model at its price point.
The 'PP Seal' is an internally evaluated standard, leading to questions about its objectivity and whether it truly reflects perfection under high magnification.
A contributor suggested that Patek Philippe's movements, while precise, could benefit from more aesthetic flair, such as ruthenium finishes, to avoid appearing monotonous over decades.
The photos reveal some areas on the plates that appear dirty or scratched, and some anglage shows chatter, contrasting with the flat polished anglage seen on the balance cock.

The Discussion

KonaJ

Mar 9, 2018

Fabulous photographer and photography!!

Wow!!!

ChristianDK

Mar 9, 2018

Some say this movement is outdated, but I will take over most other automatic movements. Any day of the week..

This watch is core Patek to me. And your macros show it really hold up to close scrutiny. Attention to detail and still maintaining the overall design of slim, elegant and coherent. Yes, I really admire this watch.

Harry2

Mar 9, 2018

I think you hit the nail on the head [nt]

KCLQMULKU

Mar 9, 2018

Bravo!

Your macro shots are near-perfect. 👍

Alkiro1

Mar 9, 2018

I love your “no particular reason” macro shots. Sublime!

Best wishes Alkiro

VMM