Samwan recounts a memorable watch-hunting trip to London, initially hoping for post-Brexit bargains but instead discovering Patek Philippe's price adjustments. His journey leads him to an unexpected dealer, where he encounters an array of rare and complicated Patek Philippe timepieces, culminating in a significant acquisition. This post offers a glimpse into the high-end watch market and the thrill of finding exceptional pieces.
Last month, I made a detour to London on my Europe trip, hoping to do some watch hunting. With the weakening Sterling after Brexit, I naively thought there might be some lucrative bargains - not true - because Patek quickly responded by raising its prices in the UK by 10%. There were rumors that the brand has cut down on production following the downturn of the global watch market so there weren't many mouth-watering pieces floating around, especially with the Nautilus line. Fortunately, I had a chance to visit a resourceful (but not very well known) dealer and they were able to show me some sparkling gems:
First on stage is a 5204R, a perpetual calendar split seconds chronograph. However, I was somewhat turned off by the upside down moon

Next, a 6102R..

They even have a 5078R in stock! The sound is absolutely awesome...

Then came the creme de la creme....a 5213G, limited to 10 pieces for the 2015 London Exhibition in 2015

Finally, a comparatively modest 5153G-012, limited to 80 pieces. I love those applied Breguet numerals!

Look at that officer case. Without the blink of an eyelid, I took it home
I was very impressed. Were you?
Sam
About the Patek Philippe Split-Seconds Chronograph Perpetual Calendar Ref. 5204
Patek Philippe Reference 5204 Split-Seconds Chronograph Perpetual Calendar
The Reference 5204 combines split-seconds chronograph functionality with perpetual calendar complications in a 40mm case format. This reference represents Patek Philippe's approach to integrating dual chronograph timing capabilities with complete calendar functions, positioning it as a grand complication within the manufacture's lineup.
The 40mm case is available in 18k white gold or rose gold with polished bezel treatment and sapphire crystal. The manual-winding Caliber R CH 27 PS QI provides 48 hours of power reserve. Dial options include silvery-gray or silvery-opaline finishes, paired with alligator leather straps. Water resistance is rated to 30 meters.
Produced from 2012 to 2019, the 5204 appeals to collectors seeking complications beyond standard chronographs or simple perpetual calendars. The split-seconds function adds timing versatility while maintaining the traditional manual-winding operation characteristic of high-end chronograph manufacture. The reference serves collectors prioritizing mechanical complexity and dual precious metal case options.
Specifications
- Caliber
- R CH 27 PS QI
- Case
- 18k White Gold or Rose Gold
- Diameter
- 40 mm
- Dial
- Silvery-gray or Silvery-opaline
- Water Resist.
- 30m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Minute Repeater Ref. 5078
The Patek Philippe reference 5078 represents the manufacture's 38mm minute repeater offering within their complications collection. Part of the 38mm Minute Repeater series, this reference was produced from 2008 to 2019, establishing its position as a contemporary grand complication timepiece.
The 5078 features a 38mm case available in three precious metal options: 18k white gold, 18k rose gold, or platinum. The polished bezel and sapphire crystal complement the available dial color variants. The manual-winding caliber 240 Q provides 48 hours of power reserve, housed within a case rated to 30 meters water resistance. A leather strap with fold-over clasp completes the construction.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking a minute repeater complication in a moderately sized case. The multiple metal options and dial variants provide choice within the reference, while the 11-year production run offers reasonable availability in the secondary market. The 5078 positions itself as an accessible entry point into Patek Philippe's chiming complications category.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 240 Q
- Case
- 18k White Gold, 18k Rose Gold, or Platinum
- Diameter
- 38 mm
- Dial
- Multiple variants available
- Water Resist.
- 30m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 5153
The Patek Philippe Calatrava reference 5153 represents a 38mm manual wind iteration within the Calatrava collection. Distinguished by its white gold construction and black dial configuration, this reference was produced from 2005 to 2012, offering collectors a substantial case size within the dress watch category.
The 38mm case is crafted from 18k white gold and features a smooth bezel with sapphire crystal protection. The manual wind caliber 215 PS movement provides 44 hours of power reserve, while water resistance extends to 30 meters. The black dial is complemented by a leather strap, maintaining the classical proportions expected from this configuration.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking a larger Calatrava format in precious metal, with the 38mm case size providing contemporary wrist presence. The manual wind movement and seven-year production span positions the 5153 as a substantial dress watch option within the white gold Calatrava offerings from this period.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 215 PS
- Case
- 18k White Gold
- Diameter
- 38 mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 30m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Ref. 5213
The Patek Philippe Reference 5213 is a highly complex grand complication timepiece, distinguished by its combination of a minute repeater, a tourbillon, and a perpetual calendar with a retrograde date. This reference is part of a select group of Patek Philippe watches that integrate multiple high complications, setting it apart from simpler perpetual calendar models. Its design prioritizes the intricate display of time and calendar functions, appealing to collectors who value mechanical ingenuity and traditional horological artistry.
This reference features a platinum case, typically measuring 40.6 mm in diameter. It houses the self-winding caliber R TO 27 PS QR, a movement renowned for its minute repeating mechanism, one-minute tourbillon, and perpetual calendar with retrograde date, day, month, leap year, and moon phases. The movement operates at a frequency of 21,600 vibrations per hour (3 Hz) and offers a power reserve of approximately 38 to 48 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal on both the front and the display back, allowing for observation of the intricate movement.
As a grand complication, the 5213 holds significant appeal for serious collectors of Patek Philippe. Its inclusion of a minute repeater and tourbillon alongside a perpetual calendar places it in a category of rare and technically sophisticated timepieces. The reference represents a pinnacle of Patek Philippe's watchmaking capabilities, often produced in limited numbers and highly sought after for its technical complexity and refined execution.
Specifications
- Caliber
- R TO 27 PS QR
- Case
- Platinum
- Diameter
- 40.6 mm
- Dial
- Black
- Water Resist.
- 30 m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Bubble Back Ref. 6102
The Patek Philippe Reference 6102, known as the Celestial, is a highly distinctive astronomical grand complication that displays the nocturnal sky. This reference is notable for its intricate dial, which accurately depicts the apparent motion of the stars, the phases and orbit of the moon, and the time of meridian passage of Sirius and the moon. It stands out in the Patek Philippe catalog as a sophisticated instrument for celestial observation, appealing to collectors interested in horological astronomy.
The 6102P features a platinum case, typically measuring 44 mm in diameter, which provides a substantial presence on the wrist. The watch is powered by the self-winding Caliber 240 LU CL C, a micro-rotor movement known for its slim profile and intricate finishing. This movement offers a power reserve of approximately 38 to 48 hours. The celestial display is protected by a sapphire crystal, ensuring clarity and durability.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking a Patek Philippe grand complication that combines technical mastery with poetic representation. The Celestial models are recognized for their unique visual complexity and the precision of their astronomical indications. The 6102P, specifically in platinum, represents a significant piece within the brand's contemporary grand complication offerings, often featuring a deep blue dial that enhances the celestial theme.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 240 LU CL C
- Case
- Platinum
- Diameter
- 44 mm
- Dial
- Blue
- Water Resist.
- 30 m
- Crystal
- Sapphire