Collection
Jaseewasee's acquisition of a Patek Philippe 5098P Gondolo Guilloché offers a compelling case study for collectors seeking overlooked value in high horology. His journey from initial skepticism to profound appreciation highlights how experiencing a timepiece in person can redefine perceptions, especially for models that defy conventional popularity. This article explores the unique appeal and technical nuances of the 5098P, drawing on Jaseewasee's insights and the community's expert observations.
The Patek Philippe Gondolo Chronometro reference 5098P is a tonneau-shaped wristwatch that draws direct inspiration from the legendary Chronometro Gondolo pocket watches commissioned by the Brazilian retailer Gondolo & Labouriau in the early 20th century. First released in platinum in 2007, followed by a rose gold variant (5098R) in 2009, this model reinterprets the classic form with contemporary craftsmanship while preserving the Art Deco spirit of the original.
The case is crafted from 950 platinum, measuring approximately 32.3 x 42 mm in its distinctive tonneau form. It houses the manual-winding Caliber 25-21 REC, a rectangular form movement specifically designed to mirror the architecture of the case — visible through the sapphire case back. Unlike round calibers fitted with spacers, the 25-21 REC fills its housing with purpose-built elegance, a detail that resonates deeply with movement purists. The guilloché dial with its intricate engine-turned pattern pays homage to the decorative arts tradition of the 1920s originals.
The 5098P occupies a special place among collectors who value Patek Philippe's shaped watches and the historical connection to the Gondolo & Labouriau era. Its limited production run and the deliberate use of a form-fitted movement make it a connoisseur's choice within the Gondolo collection, offering an alternative to the more widely known rectangular references like the 5124.
This is not a model I've paid much attention to--I remember years ago dismissing it as "Patek's Franck Muller"--but it looks so transcplendent here I feel like a fool for ignoring it!
You’re on a roll 👍
I like your story too: seeing a watch in the flesh is so different from seing it online. And there's no doubt that this reference is a major one, with an incredible dial and a beautiful shaped movement. I can only imagine the pleasure of wearing it. Best, Emmanuel
I love a dressy patek in platinum with guilloche. I was doing a deep dive into this ref literally yesterday.
It's definitely a very special design. The case is also constructed rather elaborately. The lugs are welded on. And the case back is screwed in with four screws as a plate rather than rotated in like a screw back case like in a Rolex. This is a much more difficult to design way to make a case. It's also the less preferred method overall as water resistance is more likely to be a problem in such a case. I really like the strap you have - it's got a nice vintage flair while still being very classi
At first glance you would assume it’s a Franck Muller, but will the connection to historical Gondolo models, it really has loads of Patek DNA. Thanks for looking!
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