Collection
Mike H's inaugural post introduces himself to the WatchProSite community by showcasing his Patek Philippe Ref. 5125R, a limited edition annual calendar. His detailed presentation highlights the watch's unique features and personal significance, offering a glimpse into his collecting philosophy focused on exclusive pieces.
I am not really a new comer but was registered since few years without posting (however regular reader). Thus before starting to become more active on the forum, I thought a quick introduction might be relevant.
I am leaving in the most beautiful city of the world near the Eiffel Tower, married since 22 years, and have a 15 years old son (difficult age, possibly for him but for the parents too!).
I am since long watchaddict and obviously a PP fan. My small collection consists in less than 10 pieces as I prefer having fewer exclusive watches rather than collecting many which I would not be completely in love with. My preference goes to beautiful vintage pieces, but some recent limited editions somestimes make me crazy too.
I thought introducing myself together with presenting one of my prefered watches could be a nice combination. Therefore I'll be glad to tell you a bit about my W125 also known as ref 5125.
This watch combines several of my favourite choices: annual calendar complication with digital displays fot the date, day of the week and month (that reminds me of the 3448, my absolute graal), dauphine hands, and a decidedly classic Calatrava rose gold case with a sapphire crystal back and a crown inconspicuously protected by shoulder flanks.
And as if it would not be enough, it was offered as limited-edition in 2003 only so as to celebrate the 125 years of cooperation between Patek Philippe watchmaking company in Geneva and Wempe, the Hamburg based firm of precision watchmakers and jewelers. For such a special anniversary, Patek Philippe has designed a horogical gem with a nostalgic touch.
One of the great difficulty for me was to choose between the platinum version (with black dial) and the rose gold version that I finally choose. Although I am sure they look both great I have no regrets as I love this watch. The 125 units manufactured per color for gold versions (YG, RG and WG), and 100 units only for PT are giving to the owner the feeling that he is the lucky owner of a very special piece. Even if a watch collection does not remain unchanged forever, this watch is one of the ones that you keep forever ("for the next generation" as PP say).
But if the dial is a real beauty, the back side also deserves a thorough attention : the high-precision self-winding 315 S QA LU 24H caliber with its unidirectional winding 21 K central gold rotor and center sweep seconds hand consists of more individual parts than a movement with perpetual calendar (363 components for the 315 in contrast to the 275 parts for the legendary Patek Philippe 240Q perpetual calendar caliber). Finally, its heart beats at 21,600 vibrations per hour, the 48 hours power reserve is reasonable, and the highly coveted Geneva Seal lies proudly on this piece of art.
Some details definitely in line with the PP tradition of understatement: a second full case back, and a discreetly embossed Wempe logo below the magnificent moon phase indicator:
Hope you enjoy reading this as I have writing it.
Mike
The Patek Philippe Reference 3448 is notable as the brand's first self-winding perpetual calendar wristwatch. Introduced in 1962, it marked a significant technical advancement for Patek Philippe, combining the convenience of an automatic movement with the intricate perpetual calendar complication. This reference established a new standard for complicated wristwatches and laid the groundwork for subsequent automatic perpetual calendar models. It was produced for over two decades, demonstrating its enduring appeal and technical success.
The watch features an 18k yellow gold case with a diameter of 37.5 mm, housing the automatic caliber 27-460 Q. This movement provides a power reserve of approximately 40 hours. The dial is champagne in color, protected by a sapphire crystal, and the watch offers a water resistance of 30 meters. The bezel is polished, complementing the overall classic design of the timepiece.
Reference 3448 is highly regarded by collectors for its historical significance as Patek Philippe's inaugural automatic perpetual calendar. It appeals to those who appreciate the blend of traditional watchmaking with technical innovation. The model was primarily produced in yellow gold, with very few examples in white gold, rose gold, or platinum, making those variants particularly rare. Its production run concluded in 1985, solidifying its place as a key reference in the history of complicated Patek Philippe wristwatches.
Great choice Mitko
The watch is a true beauty and I love the lay-out of its dial. Thanks a lot for the comprehensive post and for the gorgeous pics. Fx
and presentation of a highly desirable piece! I'm glad you finally decided to share & join in the fun.. :) Hope to read much more from you and to viewing more of these super shots of your collection. Cheers Fernando
I am not into CLASSIC/ VINTAGE look in a watch. BUt i am in LOVE with your watch. So elegent and i agree its a watch you keep for the nxt generation and nxt generation and nxt................. Congrates and welcome to the Forum. Best Iceman
Very nice watch and introduction. Hope to see more from your collection. Cheers Sebastiaan
Hi Mike, Thanks for sharing. But you already know that I'm a total fan of this Wempe / PP, as I got the pleasure to put your watch on y wrist. My conclusion was that this watch gives a great idea of what I could call the "Patek harmony". Everything is at its place, everything is beautiful and well done, everything is easy and logical, everything is "natural", and so on. Even the small diameter (36 mm, correct me if I'm wrong) did not make a problem on my 18 cm wrist : in fact, it gave, if possib
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