Reference Guide
Amanico's striking photographs of the Patek Philippe Gondolo 5098R reignite appreciation for a reference he believes Patek Philippe no longer creates. This article delves into why this 2009 release, with its distinctive shaped case and guilloché dial, continues to captivate collectors and stands as a testament to Patek Philippe's diverse design heritage.
The Patek Philippe Gondolo Chronometro reference 5098P is a tonneau-shaped wristwatch that draws direct inspiration from the legendary Chronometro Gondolo pocket watches commissioned by the Brazilian retailer Gondolo & Labouriau in the early 20th century. First released in platinum in 2007, followed by a rose gold variant (5098R) in 2009, this model reinterprets the classic form with contemporary craftsmanship while preserving the Art Deco spirit of the original.
The case is crafted from 950 platinum, measuring approximately 32.3 x 42 mm in its distinctive tonneau form. It houses the manual-winding Caliber 25-21 REC, a rectangular form movement specifically designed to mirror the architecture of the case — visible through the sapphire case back. Unlike round calibers fitted with spacers, the 25-21 REC fills its housing with purpose-built elegance, a detail that resonates deeply with movement purists. The guilloché dial with its intricate engine-turned pattern pays homage to the decorative arts tradition of the 1920s originals.
The 5098P occupies a special place among collectors who value Patek Philippe's shaped watches and the historical connection to the Gondolo & Labouriau era. Its limited production run and the deliberate use of a form-fitted movement make it a connoisseur's choice within the Gondolo collection, offering an alternative to the more widely known rectangular references like the 5124.
And that applies to multiple generations of the Gondolo in my humble opinion, very competitive and compelling considering what's on offer, especially with a see through caseback.
These square and tonneau PP can be gotten pretty well out there, and they do wonderful things in these shapes.
quite elegant ! The guilloche dial is superb 👍!!! It is underrated and deserves more attention 😇
Easily among the most beautiful PPs ever made in my opinion. I genuinely forgot it existed! Thank you for the wonderful pictures. Cheers, Filip
I wear mine often. The guilloché work bears close inspection, and I actually prefer the added contrast of the 5098R's rose gold aesthetics to the platinum. PP has done some subsequent designs around this shaped movement, but none to my eye capture the grace and charm of this reference. Does anyone have photos of the platinum version or of the other hand-wound Gondolos with the 25-21 REC caliber? Incidentally, was the 1920s ('30s?) original perhaps the inspiration behind Frank Muller's early outp
I am always in a dilemma between platinum and rose gold. Could we please have some feedback from the purists here to share their preferences? Thanks!
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