Patek Philippe 5489R-001  Trapèze  & Trapezoid Cousins
Collection

Patek Philippe 5489R-001 Trapèze & Trapezoid Cousins

By quattro · Feb 21, 2025 · 10 replies
quattro
WPS member · Patek Philippe forum
10 replies9132 views42 photos
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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.

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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

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
GL
GLau
Feb 21, 2025
Hi Emmanuel, the 'Trapèze' is an

intriguing piece to me given its very unusual shape ! The dial layout is also interesting. Different straps really change its looks. Thanks for highlighting this reference and well done again !

QU
quattro
Feb 21, 2025
Yes, the different straps make for a very different look!

Thanks for the kind words.

AR
ArmisT
Feb 21, 2025
Do you know if the PP and JLC were produced during the same years?

I really like the shaped movement of the LeCoultre.

QU
quattro
Feb 21, 2025
The 5489 is from the early 2000s, whereas the JLC is from the 1960s.

And I agree that the shaped movement is nice!

BR
bruckner4
Feb 21, 2025
Interesting stuff as always, quattro!

Reminds me that I need more squarish stuff beyond a Reverso. That PP ref. is very cool.

QU
quattro
Feb 21, 2025
I think about it more and more...

Thanks for chiming in.

Available on the marketplace

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