Patek Philippe Coveted Watch Collection
Collection

Patek Philippe Coveted Watch Collection

By BuffaloWatch · Oct 5, 2024 · 50 replies
BuffaloWatch
WPS member · Patek Philippe forum
50 replies9477 views2 photos
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BuffaloWatch's journey to acquiring the Patek Philippe 5970R offers a poignant reflection on horological aspirations meeting life's milestones. His candid account of navigating the emotional and practical aspects of a grail watch purchase, particularly in retirement, provides invaluable insight for collectors contemplating similar significant acquisitions. This article delves into the community's response, highlighting the shared passion and expert perspectives on this iconic reference.

Several months ago, I finally pulled the trigger on my seventh — and perhaps final — Patek, a 5970R. I’ve posted questions to this forum before about buying and owning this watch, and whether to trade for it or not as I’ve navigated the awesome feelings around securing this grail piece, which filled me with excitement and quite a bit of nervousness.

After a 40 year career I sold my business last year, and with the encouragement of my wife I decided it was now or never to get this watch as a recognition that retirement is a time to fulfill one’s dreams. A very respected dealer whom most of you probably know walked me through the purchase. He previously had a 5970P for sale which my daughter urged me to get, but as I was paying and not her I went for the more affordable and equally (to me) appealing version in rose gold!

I love it, and mostly wear it around the house but am getting braver about wearing it around town.

I’ve attached a wrist shot and also a watch box with the rest of my Patek collection. The eighth slot has my Oris Labrador beater I wear on the weekends — it probably gets the most wrist time — which might someday be replaced by a steel Patek, ideally a 3417.

Thanks to all forum members who’ve given me the insight and conviction to take this huge step as a collector.







About the Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 3417

The Patek Philippe Calatrava reference 3417 is notable for its antimagnetic properties, a feature less common in dress watches of its era. It represents a specific technical advancement within the Calatrava line, designed to protect the movement from magnetic fields, which could impair timekeeping accuracy. This focus on functional resilience distinguishes it from other Calatrava models primarily known for their aesthetic simplicity. The reference was produced in limited quantities, contributing to its specialized appeal.

This reference typically features a 33 mm case, often in stainless steel, though examples in yellow gold are also known. It houses the manual-winding caliber 23-300 PM, a movement specifically engineered with antimagnetic components. The PM designation indicates "Protection Magnétique." The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal and offers a water resistance of 25 meters. The power reserve for this caliber is approximately 44 hours.

The 3417 appeals to collectors interested in Patek Philippe's technical innovations and the brand's response to specific horological challenges. Its antimagnetic construction places it in a distinct category, offering a blend of classic Calatrava design with a practical, albeit subtle, complication. Variants exist with different dial configurations, including those with radium luminous material, further diversifying its collector interest.

Specifications

Caliber
23-300 PM
Case
Stainless steel
Diameter
33 mm
Dial
Silver
Water Resist.
25m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
PA
patrick_y
Oct 5, 2024

And even bigger congrats on a long successful career, raising a family, and so on. Those are the important things. The watch is just the cherry on top! It just happens to be a cherry we all like to talk about!

GW
GWIS
Oct 5, 2024

It looks wonderful. Enjoy your watch. Jon

JM
JMan
Oct 5, 2024

Wear it and enjoy it!

YM
yming
Oct 5, 2024

It’s a beautiful piece… the warmth of the R version really shows in your picture Great collection you have there and I am glad you kept the 5070G

GA
gary_g
Oct 5, 2024

A remarkable collection. And what sounds like a remarkable career. Enjoy the fruits of your labor and wear them in good health!

JA
Jay (Eire)
Oct 6, 2024

I can feel the excitement, which is a really great thing. As often, with time and more and more watches it can be hard to replicate that feeling. Congratulations also on your retirement. Now, you need to continue to build the courage to wear that beauty outside of the house ! 😂

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