Quattro delves into the distinctive Patek Philippe ref. 5489 'Trapèze,' a watch that has captivated the author despite never being seen in person. This article focuses on the rose gold model, ref. 5489R-001, showcasing exquisite photographs. Quattro also draws fascinating comparisons to two other trapezoid-shaped watches, the LeCoultre ref. 2406 and Jaeger-LeCoultre ref. 390, highlighting their shared aesthetic.
This is my third thread involving or dedicated to the
Patek Philippe ref. 5489 'Trapèze', a watch which I've never seen for real yet, but which has somehow gotten under my skin. The two previous threads can be found here:
This time I want to focus on the rose gold model, ref. 5489R-001, because @petitsamourai, on IG, has allowed me to use his very beautiful photos.
And I would like to show some family resemblance with two other trapezoid watches: the LeCoultre ref. 2406 (or Jaeger-LeCoultre ref. 390) and an unreferenced model from Wittnauer.
Enjoy!
A/ PATEK PHILIPPE REF. 5489R-001 (photos credit: @petitsamourai)
1/ With olive green calf strap
2/ With black alligator strap

credit: @petitsamourai
B/ LECOULTRE REF. 2406 & JAEGER-LECOULTRE REF. 390
1/ LeCoultre ref. 2406
credit: @fldx_clavi
credit: @petitsamourai with LeCoultre courtesy of @fldx_clavi
credit: @blommanwatchreport

credit: tortoise watches




credit: collectors watch company
2/ Jaeger-LeCoultre ref. 390
Jaeger-LeCoultre 1963 European catalogue 
credit: blommanwatchesreport
Ad from 1961 showing that LeCoultre was 'a division of Longines-Wittnauer' in the US (if you want more information about this, please check this page from
The Blomman Watch Report)

credit: blommanwatchreport
C/ WITTNAUER UNREFERENCED TRAPEZOID MODEL

credit: Mission Gallery Antiques San Diego (on Ebay)

credit: BoteekUneek on Etsy
About the Patek Philippe Ref. 2406
The Patek Philippe Reference 2406 is a vintage dress watch, recognized for its distinctive case shape that deviates from the more common round or rectangular designs of its era. This reference is part of a lineage of Patek Philippe timepieces that explore geometric forms, offering a unique aesthetic that sets it apart from the brand's more conventional offerings. It represents a period of design experimentation within the manufacture, appealing to collectors who appreciate less common and more sculptural case constructions.
Crafted in precious metals, the Reference 2406 typically features a case that presents a refined profile suitable for formal wear. The watch houses a manual-winding movement, a characteristic of many Patek Philippe watches from its production period, emphasizing traditional horological craftsmanship. The crystal protecting the dial is generally acrylic or mineral glass, consistent with vintage watchmaking practices, and the dial often features minimalist hour markers and hands.
This reference holds appeal for collectors interested in Patek Philippe's historical design diversity and those seeking pieces with a unique visual identity. Its relative rarity compared to other Patek Philippe models contributes to its desirability among enthusiasts who focus on specific design periods or unusual case forms. The 2406 fits into the broader context of Patek Philippe's production as an example of the brand's capacity for varied design expressions beyond its most widely recognized models.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 10'''
- Case
- Yellow Gold
- Diameter
- 22 x 34 mm
- Dial
- Silver
- Crystal
- Acrylic
About the Patek Philippe Ref. 5489
The Patek Philippe reference 5489, known as the 'Trapèze', is a distinctive model characterized by its unique trapezoidal case shape. This reference stands apart from more conventional Patek Philippe designs, offering a sculptural and architectural aesthetic that appeals to collectors seeking unconventional forms within the brand's extensive catalog. The 'Trapèze' designation highlights its most defining visual characteristic, setting it apart from other shaped watches in the Patek Philippe collection. The reference 5489R-001 specifically denotes a rose gold variant of this model.
While specific dimensions for the 5489 are not widely publicized, the case material for the 5489R-001 is rose gold. The watch is understood to house a mechanical movement, consistent with Patek Philippe's manufacturing traditions. The crystal protecting the dial is typically sapphire, a standard for high-end watchmaking, ensuring durability and clarity. The design emphasizes the case's geometry, with the dial conforming to the trapezoidal outline.
The Patek Philippe ref. 5489 'Trapèze' appeals to collectors interested in the brand's less common and more design-forward creations. Its limited visibility in the market and unique form factor contribute to its allure among enthusiasts who appreciate Patek Philippe's ventures beyond traditional round or rectangular cases. The existence of variants, such as the rose gold 5489R-001, further illustrates the model's subtle diversification within its niche.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 215 PS
- Case
- Rose gold
- Diameter
- 31 x 37 mm
- Dial
- Silver
- Water Resist.
- 30 m
- Crystal
- Sapphire