
I mentionned in the past that I really have a soft spot for this romantic watch. This is due to the case of course but also because it shows the Retrograde date and PC complications in a very beautiful way... One of the last in the collection with Roman numerals. Generally speaking, these kind of sp

The Calatrava reference 5123 is a distinctive model within Patek Philippe's classic dress watch collection, notable for its specific design elements that set it apart from other Calatrava offerings. It represents a particular aesthetic choice for collectors who appreciate a more compact and traditionally proportioned timepiece, adhering to the enduring design principles of the Calatrava line while offering a unique visual identity.
This reference features a platinum case, measuring 38 mm in diameter, which houses the manually wound caliber 215 PS. This movement is visible through a sapphire crystal case back, allowing appreciation of its finishing. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal on the front, protecting a dial that emphasizes clarity and legibility. The caliber 215 PS is known for its slender profile, contributing to the overall refined dimensions of the watch.
The 5123 appeals to collectors seeking a Calatrava with specific proportions and a preference for platinum. Its use of the caliber 215 PS, a movement with a long history within the brand, positions it as a piece that connects to Patek Philippe's heritage of manual-wind movements in dress watches. The reference was available with a silvered dial, further enhancing its classic appeal.
have a look at 5270 and if you did, what are your thoughts? I played with that reference and now I am dreaming about the next versions. Best, Kari
First, you certainly remember the review I made of the R version of this 3rd generation: www.watchprosite.com I think it is a fantastic watch, technically speaking, the new in-house movement is much more than a in-house adaptation of a Lemania or other existing caliber. This is a real and guenuine Patek movement (I'll make a post about the 29-535 soon). This caliber thing is why I prefer the 5270 compared to a 5970, even if I love the refinement and beauty of the latter. Depends on what
The "holes" for leap year and day/night are a bit weird. I got an interesting comment from a Patek executive: "Probably everybody understands that platinum version is in the pipeline. And a black dial will surprise nobody." It will be very interesting to compare 5970P and 5270P. Probably I would go for 5270P because of the fantastic movement. For me the biggest surprise was how slim 5270 feels on the wrist. I got the same feeling with 5370P meaning that the case designs are fantastic. Best, Kari
I can understand that some details in a dial can be something we can't get used to, I have some too in other references. For the holes, I'm totally ok with them (I must say I didn't like the 5970 very short hands used for LY and 24Hrs indications). As for the Pt, yes, it is most likely that they'll choose a black dial as they already used the blue one in the WG version. I guess in a matte finish as the glossy one was already used in the 5271P (and is more dressy that way). Interesting to read yo
Mark, The 5159 is one of those watches (and before it the 5059) that I have always liked, but for some reason have never acquired. I like the look myself - it does "feel" like Patek to me, and the officer style case with hinged back is quite my cup of tea. With 5059, I always found it a bit fat in thickness versus the diameter, so I never got one. 5159 felt better to me proportionally, but for some reason I found the 5059 dial a bit more harmonious and have never landed either. I watched prices
and for the same reasons! The proportions when I tried it were perfect, especially as it is 38mm. The guilloché of this dial is another element that makes it so appealing imho. As you mentionned, the prices for PC are quite high, I totally agree... Thanks for sharing your thoughts about this reference Dave! Cheers, Mark
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