Patek Philippe 5110P Buying Guide & Condition

BMR · 2018-04-25T07:26:46Z

BMR seeks advice on buying a Patek Philippe 5110P, discussing condition, 'full set' vs. extract, and wear patterns. Get expert opinions on vintage Patek market value and authenticity.

BMR

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

34 replies6056 views8 photos

BMR seeks community expertise in his quest for a Patek Philippe 5110P, specifically focusing on the challenges of finding a full set in excellent condition. His post highlights a particular watch with unusual wear patterns, prompting a discussion on authenticity, condition assessment, and the value of original documentation in the vintage Patek market.

34 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

Team,

I've been hunting a 5110P for some time now. It is getting ever harder to find one that is in great condition and also comes as a "full set". It is not as hard to find one in great condition with an Extract from the Archives, but that is really not the way I'd like to go - I can't identify exactly why, but my feeling in my stomach is just not comfortable with a watch of this value/significance that is not accompanied by its original documentation, box, etc.

I'm attaching a few pictures of one that I have located and I am considering. This one comes as a "full set", and it was originally sold in 2006. I've asked why the case back shows more wear than the front, and the jeweler did not have an answer. My guess would be that the front has been polished where the back has not been. But why, in that scenario, would someone not also polish the back? This confuses me.

Anyhow, I wanted to get our collective expert's opinions on this piece. By looking at the pictures, would you say this one is worth pursuing? What questions would you want to have answered to help you make a decision? This is a jeweler that I've not dealt with before, but they appear to be well respected. They are located in Germany.

Any help you can provide is much appreciated!

About the Patek Philippe Annual Calendar Ref. 5110

The Montblanc Calatrava reference 5110, produced between 1997 and 2006, is a notable example of the brand's classic dress watch offerings. This reference is distinguished by its combination of a relatively larger case size for its era and the inclusion of a moon phase complication, setting it apart from simpler time-only Calatrava models. It represents a period where Montblanc was expanding its horological capabilities, offering more complex movements within its established aesthetic.

This reference features an 18k yellow gold case measuring 37 mm in diameter, providing a substantial presence on the wrist while maintaining traditional dress watch proportions. It is powered by the automatic caliber 240 PS IRM C LU, a movement known for its slim profile and integrated complications. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal and offers a water resistance of 30 meters, suitable for everyday wear. The power reserve for this caliber is approximately 48 hours.

For collectors, the 5110 appeals to those seeking a Calatrava with additional functionality beyond basic timekeeping, specifically the moon phase and power reserve indicator. Its production run from 1997 to 2006 places it within a specific era of Montblanc's development, making it a point of interest for those tracing the evolution of the brand's complications. The ivory dial and smooth bezel contribute to its understated yet refined character, aligning with the traditional Calatrava design language.

Specifications

Caliber: 240 PS IRM C LU

Case: 18k Yellow Gold

Diameter: 37 mm

Dial: Ivory

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

A light polishing on the front of the watch while leaving the back untouched could explain the uneven wear, possibly to avoid polishing the hallmark on the case back.
While a 'full set' (original documentation, box) can make future selling or trading easier, the primary value lies in the watch's condition and authenticity, which an Extract from the Archives can confirm.
Scratches on the case back, especially with a deployment buckle, could result from the previous owner's rings or from placing the watch on hard surfaces.
The Patek Philippe 5110P typically falls under Complication I (Level 3) for servicing, with a base price of CHF 1,300, which can increase with additional repairs.
The availability of 5110P models in good condition with full documentation is becoming increasingly rare, with some dealers commanding significant premiums.
The decision to purchase a watch with only archive papers versus a full set often comes down to personal comfort and the perceived long-term value, especially for significant pieces.
When comparing watches, a 95% condition typically implies hairline markings, while 80% suggests deeper scratches and more noticeable wear.

The Discussion

dms

Apr 25, 2018

Ring?

Hi BMR, I'm no expert and will look forward to other members' opinions as to what to look for when considering this particular Patek, but since it has a deployment buckle, one explanation is that some of the scratches come from the previous owner's ring(s) if he was not careful while scraping the watch on. Nice project BTW !!! good luck in your search. BR,

BMR

Apr 25, 2018

Thank you.

The seller of this one guesses that the scratches may have come from placing it on a table. I could see that since that would push the deployant buckle up into the case back. I actually don't have any watches with a deployant buckle so I'm not sure if this is a common issue or not.

jenjames

Apr 25, 2018

Plus the age of the watch..

Is a old watch ie almost 12 years.. if the watch been worn daily, scratches are unavoidable. Good luck on your hunt.

BMR

Apr 25, 2018

You’re right.

And I’m not averse to scratches because I know I’ll add my own. In fact, if it has a few scratches it may make it easier for me to enjoy more often because I won’t be as protective of it. On the other hand, if spending a similar amount I’d always want the one in better overall condition, which probably goes without saying.

ingo5711

Apr 26, 2018

How else...

....is the back supposed to look like??

BMR

Apr 26, 2018

With the back presumably touching skin most of the time, I’m just surprised that there are as many scratches back there.

I’m not sure how that happens, to be honest. None of my watches display anything similar, but I’m not laying them down on abrasive surfaces really either.