Patek Philippe Chinese Zodiac Rare Handcrafts Guide

GLau · 2022-07-03T16:23:46Z

Explore Patek Philippe's rare Chinese zodiac limited editions. GLau details enamel and marquetry dials, Anita Porchet's work, and collector insights.

GLau

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

35 replies8958 views61 photos

GLau, a self-proclaimed enamel enthusiast, meticulously researched and compiled an exhaustive overview of Patek Philippe's rare handcrafts Chinese zodiac limited editions. This article, born from a forum request, delves into the intricate details of these highly collectible timepieces, offering invaluable insights into their creation, rarity, and the master artisans behind them. GLau's dedication to documenting this unique series provides a crucial resource for both seasoned collectors and new enthusiasts seeking to understand Patek Philippe's artistic legacy.

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Thanks for the good folks at Patek (J and M) for providing me with official photos. On my own, I could not have found all the lovely pieces. Tried as I may, I could not find the year of the Pig with a dial which is cute and lovely !

This LE series lasted a complete cycle of 12 years which started in 2002 (year of the horse) and ended in 2013 (year of the snake). Nine zodiacs were made in enamel dials and three zodiacs were made in wood marquetry dials. Apparently the idea came from an AD in SE Asia to cater to the Asian collectors.

For the enamel ones, a set contained 4 pieces with each piece in a different color. Although it remains a secret in terms of number of pieces made, my collector friends said that their best estimate is that less than 10 sets were made for each zodiac (i.e. less than 40 pieces). For the marquetry dials, I received 8 motifs for the Tiger and Rabbit, but only 4 for the snake. Certainly demand outstripped supply for all these pieces.

An important piece of information: these enamel pieces were made by none other than THE Anita Porchet (with her team), world’s most renowned horological enameler ! If any of you want to have an enamel dial made by her, the Chinese zodiac series is a possibility as these pieces do come out in auctions. A set for the year of the rooster was recently auctioned off one by one by Phillips in Hong Kong back in May.

Now, the MOST critical piece of information: Ms. Porchet made the first zodiac, year of the Horse by herself without her team. According to SJX in his blog, the dial was inspired by an enamel bowl made during the Qing Dynasty in the 19th century, and only three sets of four pieces were made. If you fancy a Patek enamel dial made by THE Anita Porchet on her own, you can get one or more of the 12 pieces being 5075G-023 to 026 !

19th century Qing dynasty bowl that inspired Anita for year of the horse 🐴

After 8 years (2002 to 2009) of enamel dials, 2010 year of the tiger and 2011 year of the rabbit marquetry dials were produced. The enamel motif of “cute” animals transitioned to realistic portray of the tiger and rabbit. Thereafter, enamel returned with a cute/comical dragon motif. In 2013, the last year of the series, marquetry dials depicting realistic snakes were back.

Each piece is handmade and is truly unique ! The marquetry dials are amazing and so realistic, but naturally I have a biased preference for the enamel dials. Within the enamel dials and in terms of rarity, my top pick is the horse dials because they were the only ones made Anita herself. In terms of intricacy, my top pick is the rooster due to the additional work within the body.

What are your thoughts on these pieces ? Which one(s) do you prefer and why ?

If you want a certain reference number, please let me know.

Here is a link to individual photos for enamel pieces

www.watchprosite.com

Here is a link to individual photos for marquetry dials

www.watchprosite.com

This message has been edited by cazalea on 2022-07-25 13:55:07

About the Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 5075

The Calatrava reference 5075 is a limited edition minute repeater, distinguished by its intricate dial artistry. This particular reference was part of a series celebrating the Chinese Year of the Horse, showcasing Patek Philippe's dedication to rare handcrafts and thematic editions within its classic Calatrava line. It represents a fusion of high horology and decorative arts, appealing to collectors interested in both mechanical complexity and artisanal finishes.

The watch features a case crafted from 18k white gold, housing a self-winding minute repeater movement. The dial is notable for its hand-engraved horse motif, inspired by Chunar horses, executed with meticulous detail. A sapphire crystal protects the dial, offering clear visibility of the artistic work and time indications. The movement provides a power reserve suitable for daily wear, consistent with Patek Philippe's high standards.

As a limited edition minute repeater with a specific thematic engraving, the 5075 holds particular appeal for collectors of Patek Philippe's rare handcrafts series. It stands out within the broader Calatrava collection due to its unique combination of a grand complication and a highly decorative dial, making it a significant piece for those who appreciate the brand's artistic and technical capabilities.

Specifications

Caliber: R 27 PS

Case: 18k white gold

Diameter: 36mm

Dial: White enamel with hand-engraved horse

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The marquetry dials, particularly the tiger and rabbit motifs, are admired for their intricate details and realistic portrayal achieved through small pieces of wood. However, concerns were raised regarding their long-term durability, especially in high-humidity environments, and potential discoloration or disintegration of wood fibers over time.
The rooster enamel dial is a favorite due to its flamboyant design, elaborate tail and comb, and decorative patterns. Some contributors suggested omitting the second hand to provide an unobstructed view of the intricate dial work.
The year of the Horse dials are highly prized for their direct inspiration from a 19th-century Qing Dynasty enamel bowl and for being the only pieces in the series entirely crafted by master enameler Anita Porchet herself.
The series is appreciated for its varied themes and styles across the zodiac, preventing monotony and adding to its overall interest. The transition between enamel and wood marquetry, and between 'cute' and 'realistic' animal depictions, was noted as a compelling aspect.
Some collectors express a preference for the marquetry dials over the enamel ones, acknowledging the craftsmanship in both but finding the marquetry more appealing, though this opinion may evolve after seeing more enamel dials in person.
One collector shared a personal connection to the series by showcasing their birth year's zodiac animal, the rooster, and humorously linking it to their personal style.

The Discussion

takman

Jul 3, 2022

Not a big fan of the enamel animals but I respect the work that goes into making them. I admit I haven’t seen many enamel dials in real life so my opinion might change after seeing more in the metal. My favourites would be the marquetry dials. Nice collection showing the completeness of this line. Thanks for posting them all!

Spangles - Dr. Tabby

Jul 3, 2022

The Goat is particularly successful in execution and, of course, all the marquetry!

Huei

Jul 7, 2022

Personally I prefer the marquetry dials better as they appear to be more realistic and vivid to me. In particular, I like the tigers and rabbits the most.

GLau

Jul 9, 2022

AMAZING ! Love the tigers 🐯!

GLau

Jul 9, 2022

Why do you think the goat is particularly successful in execution ??

GLau

Jul 9, 2022

piece(s) do you like and why ?

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Patek Philippe Chinese Zodiac Rare Handcrafts Guide

About the Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 5075

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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