Reference Guide
Jetguy87's quest for a Patek Philippe 5110R World Time watch highlights a common dilemma for collectors: balancing condition, provenance, and the desire for a 'full set.' This article delves into the nuances of evaluating pre-owned luxury watches, particularly focusing on case integrity and the subtle signs of polishing. Jetguy87's detailed photos and questions offer a valuable case study for anyone navigating the vintage watch market.
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.
But it sounds like you want the full set. If it’s me, I’m biding my time to get a full set, especially for a purchase such as this
First off, you have great taste; I owned a 5110R until a year ago when I finally gave in and traded it for a 5110P. I love them both, but if you think you’ll end up taking the path I did because you *really really* love the P, I’d just save up for that. As to these particular watch heads: it would be useful to see the back side of the case for the first one. How crisp are the hallmarks? I don’t trust the second one; those don’t even look like real (unretouched) photos. And if they are real photo
Fair enough. My thinking with watch only is that I can pick up a box and extract from the archives to get as close as I can.
Thanks! I have another blue dial Worldtimer that, for now, has held me off on the P. Some photos of the back side of the first one are below.
most older watches have been at some point, and it’s less of a big deal for watches like this with gentle curves than for watches that originally had more defined edges (the Royal Oak is an extreme example). The question for you is whether it’s too polished for your taste. I would (1) make sure there are no visible differences in lug width from lug to lug and (2) spend some time comparing this to other online 5110s to see how this one compares.
When I went that route it took more time and cost more money . Than if I had just bought a full set to begin with. I’ve done this with 2 watches. One was my ALS, which had everything except the box. Let’s put it this way, for what I paid for the ALS box, I could have bought a decent watch instead. As you know, it’s more about the pleasure of having a full set versus cost, but just wanted to share my experience
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