Patek Philippe 5235G Regulator Annual Calendar Review

Hi everyone,

Unveiled in 2012, the Patek Philippe 5235G is a very special piece in the brand's collection and history.

Indeed, the 5235 houses the new wonderful micro-rotor 31-260 caliber (and is, as of today, the only one to) in a 40.5mm white gold case. Not only is the watch called regulator because of the way the time is displayed but also because of its accuracy.





I had a look at several threads concerning this watch but thought an update could be cool, especially as I'm interested in your feedback. I have this watch in sight since quite a long time, even if, as always, the problem is that it is not the only one.

I'm opening that thread to give it an updated presentation since its launch and also because I would really like your honest opinion, whether you are owners or not, on that reference: positive but also negative (wearing experience, material, finishing etc...)

By the way, I read Hashluck's feedback ( www.watchprosite.com ) and, if interested, you can read Julian's delightful owner's review here: www.watchprosite.com


Of course, I have my own opinion but this is such a special reference that I may not see all what this watch is about.





The whole design whether we talk about the case (especially the straight lugs) or the dial is extremely pure, very sober as in the early 60's period. It has also a very original layout, not only because of the "regulator" time positioning but also because the case design and all the printings participate to make it very different from the classical references. This is a very unique watch to wear in terms of design but also when considering what's inside. I think it must be very rewarding when you're wearing it.

Some people may perhaps find there isn't enough going around here and others may think it is perfect design.

It is certainly not show-off or difficult to understand but for sure a unique layout and "spirit" in what Patek has produced until today.





The blue colors used for the hands or the printings (though darker for the hands when observed in the metal) are a very nice choice, especially as it matches really well with the dial's light grey color.
I also like the brand engraving very much and I heard it is enameled.

It remains below 11mm of thickness thanks to the micro-rotor caliber, which is a very nice result considering the automatic winding mechanism and the Annual Calendar complication.


Oliver's wristshot is among the best I could see:




As I said before, the new 31-260 caliber (33mm x 5mm) is my favorite automatic movement in Patek's collection (aside from the Minute Repeaters of course). What I particularly like, aside from the width, is the bridges cut design: the shape consists of a single en continuous soft curve progressing from the top to the bottom. The wheels, the way they are aligned the same way, are a characteristic of this movement I also appreciate very much.

Last but not least this movement houses the Spiromax and Pulsomax features (Silicon-based escapement wheel, Swiss anchor and spiral) that were available in the Advanced Research 5550P reference. As a reminder those silicon parts are anti-magnetic, they don't corrode and don't need lubrication. It is also offering less friction and wear which are also good for accuracy, longevity and energy savings.





It is the first regular reference to receive these improved elements and I like that as it proves Patek isn't only making "show-case" watches with the Advanced Research program but that it tends toward being integrated in some selected reference (not all) of the collection.





It also has a hacking second feature, which is not frequent in the collection.


Now, I'll be delighted to read you: tell me if you tried it or not, how you felt and, even didn't hold it yet, what is your opinion about this reference.

Thank you!

Cheers, Mark

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This message has been edited by Mark in Paris on 2015-11-16 14:23:46