Patek Philippe Gondolo 5109J-010 Reference Guide
Reference Guide

Patek Philippe Gondolo 5109J-010 Reference Guide

By cayenne1200 · Oct 20, 2022 · 27 replies
cayenne1200
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In this insightful article, cayenne1200, a seasoned collector, delves into the nuances of the Patek Philippe Gondolo 5109J-010, a model often overlooked but rich in character. His quest for understanding the original case aesthetics and identifying signs of over-polishing highlights a critical concern for collectors navigating the pre-owned market. This piece serves as an invaluable guide for those seeking to appreciate the subtle design integrity of this distinctive Patek Philippe reference.

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I stumbled across this Gondolo model and find it very interesting. Unfortunately, I couldn't find much information about the model and would be happy to learn some details that I should pay attention to when buying, especially about the original shape of the case. How can I tell if the case of this Gondolo is too polished?
Thanks a lot for your input, folks.

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The Discussion
GL
GLau
Oct 20, 2022
Very attractive art deco style !

Best of luck in finding out more info and let us know your decision.

PA
patrick_y
Oct 20, 2022
It's not possible for most people to be able to tell if a case is polished or not using only photos...

Unless it's obviously polished. Most other information would just be a bad opinion. As most experts wouldn't give an expert judgment based off a photo. Thus, and with respect to our Terms of Conduct where we avoid discussing seller references for specific sellers, all I can say is that you should buy something only if you really like it and you trust the seller. Remember, trust of the seller is paramount. If you can't trust the seller's information is accurate and trustworthy, then you can't tru

PA
patrick_y
Oct 20, 2022
Lastly, don't buy it just because it's inexpensive!

Forgot to mention, a lot of people want an "inexpensive" Patek Philippe in their collection. Not saying that you want this. But don't be attracted to something just because it's inexpensive on the used market. Remember, always need to trust the seller first! You need to trust the seller knows what they're selling and can answer your questions about the piece. I probably wouldn't normally buy an A-Class Mercedes-Benz vehicle, since I realize the platform is a front-wheel-drive platform and that i

CA
cayenne1200
Oct 20, 2022
Dear Patrick, thx for your comments and advice. Highly aprecciated 👍

I am a long time collector and know my due diligence. Maybe I was not clear enough with my questions. The watch on the pic is just an example for the model and is not subject to any discussion or question of mine. As I do not know the model well I am wondering how an untouched case is supposed to look like. That’s what I would be interested in. If I have an idea of the right look I can better judge if I see one specific watch in real. With a Nautilus, Aquanaut etc. or Rolex I know the original l

PA
patrick_y
Oct 20, 2022
Specific Advice to 5109...

That's right! I remember you have some experience with buying used watches. A used 5110P if I recall correctly, I remember that one since that's one of my personal favorite references. When you look at the 5109, you'll see the watch is kind of like a reverse picture frame, there are four corners that frame the dial that makes the bezel. Notice, where the corners meet, there is a line. A poorly polished version of this watch would have some flattening of this line. I've seen 5109 watches before i

CA
cayenne1200
Oct 21, 2022
Thx again, Patrick. This is exactly the info I was looking for.

When researching on watch models I haven’t handled or seen before I often feel a bit uncomfortable as I could not develop a „feeling“ if the case is good or not. A post below is referring to the condition of the hallmarks which also is an indication. And yes, I’ve bought a wonderful pre-owned 5110P which is now one of my favourite pieces. But also 3445, 5270, 5450. 😄

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