Patek Philippe London Watch Hunting Trip
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Patek Philippe London Watch Hunting Trip

By samwan · Oct 3, 2016 · 35 replies
samwan
WPS member · Patek Philippe forum
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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 smile



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

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The Discussion
FE
fernando
Oct 3, 2016

And a very special 5153! Congrats! I suppose you will be an auction soon too. Best fernando

SA
samwan
Oct 3, 2016

including a couple of 5101. But I am holding back....too many incoming in the next couple of months....no money...no space in the safe... :P Best Sam

SA
samwan
Oct 3, 2016

MRs are lovely, but not my first preference....I hurt my ear while diving many years ago and now cannot hear whatever my wife says :P

AM
amanico
Oct 3, 2016

Repeater. Thanks for your post, Sam. Nicolas

SH
sham1
Oct 3, 2016

I was as impressed with your photographic skills as I was with the watches themselves. Would it be ok for me to ask you which obscure dealer held all these beauties? I had thought all the limited edition London exhibition watches were sold out by now and was actually hunting for a 5153G myself. Good thing you bought it or I would be a poorer man today! Best wishes, Sham

SA
samwan
Oct 3, 2016

I simply took the pictures with a smart phone (Huawei Nexsus 6P.....I was told the new model P9 (which houses a Leica lens) is even better. On the dealer, I will send you a PM Yes, they are all sold out, but once in a while, some people change their minds.....

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