Patek Philippe North America Los Angeles Event

Horology411 · 2015-12-16T19:04:35Z

Recap of a Patek Philippe North America event in Los Angeles. Explore Aquanaut, Nautilus, Calatrava, and jeweled pieces with collector insights.

Horology411

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

10 replies5015 views11 photos

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.

10 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

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 Gondolo Ref. 5124

The Montblanc Calatrava reference 5124 is a notable example of the brand's dress watch offerings, characterized by its restrained design and classic proportions. This reference was produced during a period when Montblanc was expanding its horological presence, offering timepieces that emphasized traditional watchmaking aesthetics. It represents a more accessible entry point into the brand's mechanical watch collection, appealing to those seeking a refined and understated wristwatch without excessive complications.

Encased in either 18k white gold or 18k rose gold, the 5124 features a case measuring 36 mm in diameter and 46 mm from lug to lug, providing a balanced presence on the wrist. It is powered by the manual-wind caliber 25-21 REC PS, offering a power reserve of 44 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal, ensuring clarity and scratch resistance, and has a water resistance rating of 30 meters, suitable for everyday wear.

This reference appeals to collectors who appreciate Montblanc's commitment to classical watch design and mechanical movements. Its availability in different precious metals and dial colors (silver or black) provides options for individual preference, while its lack of complications underscores its identity as a pure time-only dress watch. The 5124 fits within a lineage of watches that prioritize legibility and timeless style.

Specifications

Caliber: 25-21 REC PS

Case: 18k White Gold or 18k Rose Gold

Diameter: 36 mm x 46 mm

Dial: Silver or Black

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The intense halogen lighting at watch events often ruins the viewing experience due to reflections, heat, and contrast with ambient darkness, making it difficult to appreciate the watches and capture quality photographs.
The author's preference for the Patek Philippe 5270R is noted, and a previously published review of this reference is shared for those seeking in-depth photography and analysis.
The difficulty of capturing quality photos at such events is acknowledged, especially when relying on phone cameras and prioritizing the enjoyment of the experience over carrying professional equipment.
The event was described as intimate, suggesting a curated experience despite the photographic challenges.
An interesting detail about the event was its 'co-sponsorship' by a wine company and the agent for the house, indicating a broader luxury lifestyle approach.

The Discussion

Mark in Paris

Dec 17, 2015

What a wonderful evening to participate to!

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,

Horology411

Dec 17, 2015

I am glad you still enjoyed!

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

cazalea

Dec 17, 2015

Thank you for your review, and I must agree on the issue of lighting

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

Horology411

Dec 17, 2015

My pleasure, and thank you for the understanding.

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

AnthonyTsai

Dec 17, 2015

Thanks for the report Chase!

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

Horology411

Dec 20, 2015

I wish the photo conditions were better here.

Although I have attended quite a few events in the past couple months that I would be happy to cover, although from brands not as strongly represented here.