Patek Philippe North America Los Angeles Event
Manufacture

Patek Philippe North America Los Angeles Event

By Horology411 · Dec 16, 2015 · 10 replies
Horology411
WPS member · Patek Philippe forum
10 replies5015 views11 photos
f 𝕏 in 💬 🔗

Horology411 recounts his experience at an exclusive Patek Philippe North America event in Los Angeles, offering a glimpse into the brand's diverse collections. Despite challenging photography conditions, he shares his impressions of various models, from the practical Aquanaut Travel Time to the elegant Calatrava and intricate jeweled pieces. Horology411's narrative provides a personal perspective on Patek Philippe's offerings and the atmosphere of a high-end horological gathering.

I recently had the pleasure of attending an event hosted by one of the world's finest horological houses (and certainly the finest Polish-French one), none other than Patek Philippe.  Our hosts arranged a newly constructed modern home with an outstanding view as the venue for the evening, which added a welcome bit of familiarity to the event. The view on approach:


The view from the entry warranted a picture, and promises much more out back.



Promises of ample company over dinner, and the watches are finally in sight.


 

Now we get to the important part; the watches.

I will start by saying that the most disappointing aspect of the event was that the photography conditions were deplorable.  The direct lighting was wreaking reflective havoc on the camera, plus the otherwise dark environment threw off the light sensors and white balance.  I have made efforts to correct the photos before posting.  

The pieces were distributed throughout the showcases based mostly on collection.  The first one I came across had a pair of Aquanauts and Nautiluses, although it gets more interesting.  I tend to overlook the Aquanaut, although seeing the 5164 Aquanaut Travel Time in person actually had me take another look.  Second time zone functions have always appealed to me because they are perhaps one of the most needed complications after a date.  The 7134G Calatrava Travel Time was interesting to see in the same case, to offer the same function in a totally different form.

 

I could not resist a wrist shot to let the 5712 visit the relatives.  Perhaps the most puzzling occupant of this case (relative to the rest) was the enamel artwork dial Calatrava.  The enamel dial is exquisite although my own bias towards complications did not allow me to like it as much as I wished.  My submissions would be calendar displays in the portholes, or a sonnerie with automatons based on the dial subject.


 

Another display housed the Calatravas along with a Gondolo. The blue 6000 and 5124 are classic beauties that would be at home in any decade.  The 5524 Calatrava Travel Time Pilot takes some getting used to, although I found the instrument feeling of the display most welcome.  Personally, I would prefer a more refined take on the dial color and finish, although the font and layout were thoroughly pleasing.



I particularly liked the dial of the 7200/1R.  The silvery white dial with applied Breguet numerals in matching rose gold was another classic piece, perhaps the most purely elegant of the evening.




There was one case dedicated to lady's and jeweled pieces.  The one I found most striking here was the 7042/100G, the lady's Gondolo with extensive pearl and diamond decoration throughout, although the pearls were what I found most alluring.  Perhaps the most feminine gem, they rarely find their way to watches because of their fragile nature, which could also be a cause for concern.


Finally, my favorite case of the evening, the complications and grand complications.  The more modern and visually sharp 5905 annual calendar chronograph was the focus of most guests, although the 5270R stole my heart.  The warmth and softness of the rose gold complimented the highly complicated nature of the piece and the intricate dial.  This is not just haute horology, but truly timeless excellence.


 But of course, there is room for one more, the 5271P.  The brother of the 5270R, it is also a recipient of my great affection, although I am still uncomfortable with the heavy jeweling.  Were it just the hour index, I would love it, but the bezel makes it look like it is trying, and a PP grand complication should never need to try.

 

A view so stunning could not help but to be shared.  Thank you, and I hope you have enjoyed!



About the Patek Philippe 5712 Ref. 5712

The Patek Philippe Complications Reference 5712 is a notable offering within the brand's Complications collection, distinguished by its asymmetrical dial layout and a suite of practical indications. It presents a sophisticated blend of functionality and design, offering a moon phase, power reserve indicator, and an analog date display, all arranged to create a distinctive visual identity that sets it apart from more traditional Patek Philippe designs.

This particular reference features a stainless steel case measuring 40 mm in diameter, housing the self-winding caliber 240 PS IRM C LU. This movement is known for its slim profile, achieved through the integration of a micro-rotor, contributing to the watch's comfortable wearability. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal and offers a water resistance of 60 meters, with a power reserve of approximately 48 hours.

For collectors, the 5712 represents an accessible entry into Patek Philippe's complicated timepieces, offering a range of functions without the complexity of a perpetual calendar or chronograph. Its stainless steel construction and integrated bracelet provide a robust and versatile option, appealing to those seeking a daily wearable complicated watch. The reference has been in production since 2006, with the 5712/1A denoting the stainless steel bracelet variant.

Specifications

Caliber
240 PS IRM C LU
Case
Stainless Steel
Diameter
40 mm
Dial
Blue
Water Resist.
60m
Crystal
Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

Advertisement
The Discussion
MA
Mark in Paris
Dec 17, 2015

First, let me say that I know how hard it is to take pictures in such events and that we appreciate your write-up and the pictures helping "feeling" the evening, even if they are not perfect. I have some pictures of the 7200/1R that I'll share here and I must say this 5270R is one of my favorite in 2015 (with the 5370P of course). I made a review here if you missed it: www.watchprosite.com = Are you looking for a little sister to your 5712? Thank you very much for sharing Chase. Cheers,

CA
cazalea
Dec 17, 2015

We have been to several such events, and the intense halogen lights ruin the experience of viewing the watches. It's a combination of heat, reflections, contrast with ambient darkness, and so forth, making it impossible to enjoy the experience. And bringing out 4 iPhones on flashlight mode does not resolve the issue. So dark can hardly see who's across the table Candle helps a bit Flash upsets other diners and doesn't always improve the photos Flashlight is an eye-opening tool Portable light box

HO
Horology411
Dec 17, 2015

We must have very similar taste if you also love the 5270R. Although our tastes differ slightly because my heart goes to the 5959P over the 5370P. I had the pleasure of reading your review of the 5270R, and I must say that I felt comfort in knowing that nobody would depend on my post for quality photography of the piece or an in-depth review with yours already available. Thank you for the kind words! Cheers, Chase

HO
Horology411
Dec 17, 2015

The photo issue was compounded by the fact that I have no intention of carrying a camera with me, so I was left with the capability of my phone. Luckily Nokia has always produced excellent camera phones so I am rarely at a loss. This event was perhaps the most trying for my camera. Plus, I intended to enjoy the experience, so carrying a bag of equipment was simply not an option. Cheers, Chase

AN
AnthonyTsai
Dec 17, 2015

Too bad the photo conditions weren't better. Looks like an intimate event from your pics. Cheers, Anthony

JO
jon_jon
Dec 19, 2015

Looks like it was a very nice event with some fine pieces on display.

Advertisement

Continue the conversation

This thread is active on the Patek Philippe forum with 10 replies. Share your knowledge with fellow collectors.

Join the Discussion →