Patek Philippe Collection: Thoughts & Pictures
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Patek Philippe Collection: Thoughts & Pictures

By xxcesar · May 8, 2021 · 23 replies
xxcesar
WPS member · Patek Philippe forum
23 replies6175 views10 photos
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In this insightful comparison, xxcesar, a long-time Patek Philippe Nautilus owner, shares his candid thoughts on the current luxury watch market frenzy and introduces his new H. Moser & Cie. Streamliner. His detailed side-by-side analysis offers a refreshing perspective on what truly defines horological value and personal satisfaction beyond hype. This article explores why xxcesar, a collector who acquired his Nautilus 15 years ago, has found a new appreciation for independent watchmaking.

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Just took delivery of the streamliner, so would like to share some pictures and some thoughts - hope you enjoy the perspective.

I got my 5712 about 15 years ago, and am still a happy owner. Although I have to say that I am rather sad than happy about the current frenzy, the main reasons are:
- If you wear the watch now, you kind of look like a fashion victim sheepishly following public opinion - not my preferred self image of course.
- If you scratch it, every scratch is the equivalent of a normal watch. I did not buy it as a safe queen, so not wearing it often is not the way it should be
- If you want to expand your collection, it is just not right. I bought the watch resell, as I do not see the need to build an AD relationship as a premium buying experience - I am the customer after all. Back then the premium was measured in %, not in a factor of X. Today, the ratio between a three hand steel and a platinum calendar of the same make just is not right. This I will not do.

Hence, there will not be additional Nautis for now.

Coming to the Moser.

I was aware of the brand for quite a while, but never really tempted to buy one. I liked the look in general, but not for me. I used to own a Movado museum watch many many years ago. It was the perfect watch for a night at the opera, but pretty much not the right watch for anything else. This is how I felt about most of the Moser models.

When I first saw the streamliner, this changed. I like the independece of the look. Of course, you can find resemblance with other watches like the ocean 2000, 70s Pulsars or 90s Seiko Kinetics, but they stayed safely away from AP and PP looks. Given what I said about my view on the Nauti frenzy above, I think the Moser you get for all the right reasons, look, quality, movement,… and none of the wrong ones.

So off I went.

The Moser wears super cormfortable, light feel, very smooth lines, high quality, just as it should be…

Comparing the two, in of course just my very personal view:

Size:
They look and wear about the same size, only difference is the height of the case on the Moser, but it does not wear bulky or is an issue witht the cuff like an ROO. Likely this is becaus of the sloped shape.

Weight:
Practically feels the same, have not measured, but I do not notice much of a difference. I think the PP bracelet is heavier so this compensates the likely delta on the case/movement.

Execution:
The Moser looks and feels higher quality, Nothing to complain on the 5712, but the edges or the sound of the bracelet are not the same level. On the streamliner the way the bracelet connects to the case and the case connects to the glass is just superb.

Movement:
Obviously the Moser, not done by Moser, is a piece of Art.

Looks:
They are different, the 5712 is more classic design language, the Moser more retro sporty style. The Nauti is a very flat watch, which makes it super practical, but it looks kind of 2D in relation to the Moser 3D shape.
If the streamliner look will age the same nice way is to be seen.

Let’s see, if this is just the new crush effect or if my view stays over the coming years, but for now that’s what it is - so the Moser did get me converted from seeing myself as a Nautilus follower.

Please comment, if you can understand or think I should get lost.

Will add photos in second post, as there is some trouble getting them in.

Have a nice weekend.

C.









About the Audemars Piguet Royal Oak Ref. 5712

The Audemars Piguet Royal Oak reference 5712 represents a 36mm iteration within the Royal Oak series, produced during the 1980-1990 period. This reference features a blue dial configuration paired with stainless steel construction throughout both case and bracelet.

The 36mm stainless steel case houses the automatic caliber 2121 movement, delivering a 40-hour power reserve. The watch incorporates a fixed octagonal bezel and sapphire crystal, with 50-meter water resistance. The integrated steel bracelet completes the stainless steel construction.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking a vintage-production Royal Oak in the smaller 36mm case size. The blue dial variant offers an alternative to more common dial colors within the reference range. The decade-long production window from 1980-1990 places this reference within the early Royal Oak manufacturing period.

Specifications

Caliber
2121
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
36 mm
Dial
Blue
Water Resist.
50m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
FA
FabR
May 8, 2021

As for the Nautilus, you obviously made a very good choice 15 years ago (at least in hindsight ;-)....my simple advice is to be happy about it, and enjoy your Patek sports icon to the fullest! I can partly understand the economic concerns (though they become nonexistent if you do not intend to sell the watch), but I wouldn't really be bothered that some people (?) may view you as a "fashion victim"....let others think whatever they please, and keep enjoying a great piece of horology! Cheers.

FL
FlyingSnoopy
May 8, 2021

I have also been looking at moser the past few years as I like the designs very much... A question thought, the caliber is not done by moser? Thanks

XX
xxcesar
May 8, 2021

They are very open about Aghenor providing it. As this is another independent fine maker of mastery, nothing wrong with that from my pov.

RO
Rosneathian
May 8, 2021

They might be personal but I like that you seem to keep a distance from the watches and from the crowd. I find that this helps build a more rounded appreciation and ownership experience. As for the watches themselves, they’re lovely. I’m not especially drawn to this type of watch these days but they are nevertheless standouts in this category.

1W
1WatchMan
May 8, 2021

Never seen one of these Mosers in the flesh, but looking forward to. Initially, not my favorite look, but these things have to be seen in person. Enjoy your two beauties!

AF
afaleh
May 8, 2021

I personally like Moser, watches and the brand. I hope they succeed! This model is not for me, too unique if a design, looks like a watch the men in black would wear though! Movement looks downright gorgeous!

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