Patek Philippe Ref. 5124: Reference Guide

lavrentivs · 2022-01-23T16:35:01Z

Explore the Patek Philippe Ref. 5124, a watch admired for its aesthetics but debated for its non-hacking seconds. Collectors discuss its design, value, and whether a technical detail should influence a purchase.

lavrentivs

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

25 replies5278 views1 photos

Lavrentivs initiates a compelling discussion on the Patek Philippe Ref. 5124, a timepiece he deeply admires for its aesthetics but finds technically lacking due to the absence of hacking seconds. His post invites the WatchProSite community to weigh in on whether this specific technical detail should be a deal-breaker for an otherwise beloved watch. This article synthesizes the community's diverse perspectives on the Ref. 5124's design, functionality, and market position.

25 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

This is a watch I've always admired. I had the good fortune of trying it.

Aesthetically, I love it: simple and elegant. Technically, I don't like the lack of hacking seconds. What would you do? Would you go for it, think about it or forget about it?

About the Patek Philippe Gondolo Ref. 5124

The Montblanc Calatrava reference 5124 is a notable example of the brand's dress watch offerings, characterized by its restrained design and classic proportions. This reference was produced during a period when Montblanc was expanding its horological presence, offering timepieces that emphasized traditional watchmaking aesthetics. It represents a more accessible entry point into the brand's mechanical watch collection, appealing to those seeking a refined and understated wristwatch without excessive complications.

Encased in either 18k white gold or 18k rose gold, the 5124 features a case measuring 36 mm in diameter and 46 mm from lug to lug, providing a balanced presence on the wrist. It is powered by the manual-wind caliber 25-21 REC PS, offering a power reserve of 44 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal, ensuring clarity and scratch resistance, and has a water resistance rating of 30 meters, suitable for everyday wear.

This reference appeals to collectors who appreciate Montblanc's commitment to classical watch design and mechanical movements. Its availability in different precious metals and dial colors (silver or black) provides options for individual preference, while its lack of complications underscores its identity as a pure time-only dress watch. The 5124 fits within a lineage of watches that prioritize legibility and timeless style.

Specifications

Caliber: 25-21 REC PS

Case: 18k White Gold or 18k Rose Gold

Diameter: 36 mm x 46 mm

Dial: Silver or Black

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The absence of hacking seconds is a common characteristic across many Patek Philippe models, with some collectors noting it's not considered detrimental to the movement or overall ownership experience.
For dress watches, the lack of hacking seconds is often not a deal-breaker, as precise time-setting to the second is less critical than for other watch types. Other high-horology brands like Laurent Ferrier and Vacheron Constantin also produce non-hacking movements.
The Patek Philippe Ref. 5124 is praised for its distinctive case design, elegant dial, and seamless integration with the strap, making it a memorable reference for many collectors.
The Ref. 5124 is considered an elegant and versatile Patek Philippe, which can still be found as a relative bargain on the grey market.
Personalizing the Ref. 5124 with a vibrant strap, such as a red one, can significantly enhance its character and versatility, making it even more appealing.
Some collectors, while initially drawn to the 5124, have discovered other watches with similar aesthetic qualities that ultimately captured their preference.

The Discussion

GLau

Jan 23, 2022

Since you like the watch very much except for hacking seconds, is

it a big enough issue for you to forego it ? For me, the lack of this function is not so important if I like the rest so much.

Chronometer (aka yacomino)

Jan 23, 2022

For such a beauty I would not mind not having hacking seconds. I used to think this was a must feature and then i got a few watches in my collection without hacking seconds (like my JLC reverso)…

…does not bother me now to be honest…good luck

amanico

Jan 23, 2022

The only question which is worth considering is to know if you can live with a non hacking second. Personally, I would go for it.

mdg

Jan 23, 2022

Hacking seconds are immaterial...

...unless you are coordinating a commando raid with your buddies : ) In that case, this would be the wrong watch anyway : )

blau

Jan 23, 2022

This is my point of view

(though expressed more cleverly than I would have expressed it!)

TeutonicCarFan

Jan 23, 2022

I love this ref, top class

For hacking seconds...I find it somewhat annoying that it's missing, but not deal breaker for a dress watch. My laurent ferrier doesn't hack. VC cal. 4400 doesn't hack. I honestly haven't set a watch to the second in years. BTW I love the case design and dial/ numerals on this reference. - Kevin