Patek Philippe Collection: Recent Acquisitions
Collection

Patek Philippe Collection: Recent Acquisitions

By sham1 · Jan 11, 2020 · 89 replies
sham1
WPS member · Patek Philippe forum
89 replies17586 views5 photos
f 𝕏 in 💬 🔗

In this captivating post, sham1 shares the exhilarating story of acquiring two highly coveted Patek Philippe steel watches, the Ref. 5212/1A and the limited-edition Ref. 7234A, within a remarkably short span. His narrative offers a rare glimpse into the emotional rollercoaster of collecting sought-after references and provides valuable insights into Patek Philippe's allocation process for special editions. This piece resonates with collectors who appreciate the unique allure of steel Patek Philippe timepieces and the personal journey behind their acquisition.

89 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →
Steel Patek watches have become quite a novelty these days and I am not just referring to the Nautilus and Aquanaut.  I personally am partial towards steel because I like my watches light (he lighter the better!) and currently have four steel watches in my current collection of eight watches. And I would be lying if I did not admit that the fact that they are cheaper than the precious metal cases is an added attraction! My next two incoming watches will be a 5711/1A and a steel Gronefeld Remontoire.  But not in my wildest dreams would I have expected to be the proud owner of the gorgeous 5212/1A and the limited edition 7234A, that was released for the Singapore exhibition, all within a space of three weeks!  

Only 10 days ago, I had dropped by at my Malaysian AD to enquire about my request for a 7234A and I had been told that my application had not been approved.  I thought to myself 'fine' as I buy all my Pateks from my UK AD so it was arguably fair that more deserving cases in South East Asia (like CBB for example!) were allocated one.  Then a few days ago, my AD gave me a call saying she had some good news for me and that she had made a mistake.  A 7234A had my name on it and was waiting for me in the shop.  I cannot describe how this roller coaster ride felt emotionally.  Incidentally, I will be flying to the UK on Tuesday and will be wearing the 7234A as it will be perfect for my travels. The light blue dial; is a sight to behold as it changes colour in the light to a grey and then back to a blue.  Another unexpected joy is the comfortable blue strap which is unlike any other.  It gives me the watch a casual look as does the tan strap on the 5212A.  A purist who met me yesterday remarked that these two watches were a departure from what I usually buy as I have tended to focus on dress watches with the conventional black or dark brown straps.

When the 5711/1A finally arrives, I will post my trilogy of steel Pateks. I feel most blessed and although I do like certain independent brands, there is a certain allure of Patek Philippe which perhaps explains why it remains and will remain the core of my small collection.

Thank you for reading and enjoy the rest of your weekend!




My new babies!




They both fit well despite being 2.5mm different in size




Sorry, not the best photos of the movement




Notice the difference of the dial colour in all three photos of the 7234A




A clearer photo of the movement of the 7234A with the Singapore exhibition print on the sapphire crystal glass


About the Patek Philippe Ref. 5212

The Patek Philippe Reference 5212A Calatrava Weekly Calendar introduced a novel complication to the brand's lineup, displaying not only the day and date but also the current week number and month. This function is particularly useful for individuals who track their schedules and business activities by week. The watch maintains the classic Calatrava aesthetic while incorporating a complex yet legible dial layout for its unique calendar display.

Crafted in stainless steel, a less common material for Patek Philippe complications, the 5212A features a 40mm case with a distinctive stepped lug design. It houses the self-winding caliber 26-330 S C J SE, visible through a sapphire crystal case back. This movement provides a power reserve of approximately 35-45 hours and incorporates a new base caliber for the brand, developed specifically for this weekly calendar mechanism.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking a Patek Philippe with a distinctive and practical complication, offered in a robust and understated material. Its introduction marked a notable addition to the Calatrava collection, demonstrating Patek Philippe's continued innovation in calendar functions. The steel construction also positions it as a more accessible entry point for some collectors into the brand's complicated offerings.

Specifications

Caliber
26-330 S C J SE
Case
Stainless Steel
Diameter
40 mm
Dial
Opaline gray
Water Resist.
30 m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

Advertisement
The Discussion
AM
amanico
Jan 11, 2020
Congratulations, Sham. I am very happy for you. Enjoy! [nt]

SH
sham1
Jan 12, 2020
Thank you very much Nico!

I am almost selfishly hoping that Patek will not bring out anything nice in the next few years as my watch budget is non existent apart from the budgeted pieces!

RN
rnaden
Jan 11, 2020
Big congrats again, my friend

Certainly a really great start to the year with these two. Both are definitely a departure from your others but a little variation is always a good thing. Safe and happy travels! Richard

SH
sham1
Jan 12, 2020
Thank you so much Richard!

I feel young again with these two casual looking watches!

RN
rnaden
Jan 12, 2020
You are young :-)

What are you talking about ;-)

SH
sham1
Jan 12, 2020
Young at heart for sure

but age is a relative thing so 56 seems a lot older than the rest of you guys! Thanks Richard

Available on the marketplace

2,850 Patek Philippe listings are live on the eBay market and 1721 collector listings on the WatchProSite marketplace.

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Patek Philippe forum with 89 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →