FabR, a respected member of the WatchProSite community, offers a unique side-by-side comparison of two Patek Philippe Ref. 5177G-010 'Boccadasse' timepieces. This article delves into the subtle yet significant variations found in these rare, hand-enameled dials, highlighting the artistry and individuality inherent in Patek Philippe's Métiers d'Art creations. FabR's detailed photographic essay serves as an invaluable resource for collectors seeking to understand the nuances of these exceptional 'out-of-catalog' references.
Dear Friends,
let me kick off the new year on our forum by having some fun -- here's for you a collage that I have created of my favorite watch on this planet, Patek "Boccadasse" 5177G-010...and the ONLY TWO specimens I have ever seen of it!
The one on the left is part of the amazing collection of our dear member Michael Ng, on the right is mine.
We saw in the past multiple comparisons of Patek enamel WTs (the 5131 and 5231 series), but this is probably a first for an "out-of-catalog" reference (currently, the 5077, 5089, 5177, or 5086). Given the level of detail of these hand-made dials and the several techniques involved, it's literally amazing how many tiny differences one can find!
Hope you enjoyed -- and that staring at these dials long enough can make you as happy as I am!
Remember that this is NOT a unique piece. Besides Michael and myself, at least 2 to 4 other allocations have been made and are currently in private collections around the world. Hence, let me also invite to the party any other owner of this reference who might be reading our forum: if at any point you feel comfortable introducing your watch to our community, please feel free to join us -- we very much look forward to hearing from you!
Cheers.

Michael Ng's "Boccadasse" on the left, mine on the right.

Some of the documents that come with the watch; in particular, this page is listing the rare handcraft techniques that we can see on the dial.
About the Patek Philippe Ref. 5131
The Patek Philippe Complications reference 5131 is a World Time model, distinguished by its cloisonné enamel dial depicting a map of the world. This reference is part of a series that showcases Patek Philippe's expertise in both horological complications and traditional decorative arts, offering a functional travel watch with significant aesthetic appeal. It represents a continuation of the brand's long-standing tradition of producing World Time watches, updated with contemporary design elements and a self-winding movement. The 5131 is recognized for its intricate dial work, which varies depending on the specific metal and region depicted.
The watch features a 39.5mm case, available in various precious metals, housing the self-winding Caliber 240 HU. This movement provides a power reserve of 48 hours and drives the World Time complication, allowing the wearer to simultaneously view the time in 24 different time zones. The case is fitted with a sapphire crystal, ensuring durability and clear visibility of the detailed dial. Water resistance is rated at 30 meters, suitable for everyday wear. The fixed bezel frames the intricate dial, contributing to the watch's refined profile.
As a World Time model with a cloisonné dial, the 5131 appeals to collectors who appreciate both technical sophistication and artisanal craftsmanship. Its limited production and the unique hand-finished nature of each dial contribute to its desirability within the secondary market. The reference fits into Patek Philippe's Complications collection as a high-end travel watch, offering a distinctive alternative to more traditional time-only or chronograph models. Variants typically involve different precious metal cases and corresponding enamel map depictions.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Cal.240 HU
- Case
- yellow gold
- Diameter
- 39.5mm
- Dial
- blue
- Water Resist.
- 30m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 5077
The Patek Philippe Calatrava reference 5077 represents the manual-wind ladies' offering within the Calatrava collection. This 33.2mm reference was produced from 2005 to 2015, positioning it as a mid-2000s to mid-2010s interpretation of the dress watch format for women.
The 5077 features an 18k white gold case measuring 33.2mm in diameter with a smooth bezel and white dial. The watch employs sapphire crystal and offers 30-meter water resistance. Power comes from the manual-wind caliber 215 PS, providing 44 hours of power reserve. The timepiece is fitted with a leather strap.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking a ladies' mechanical dress watch from Patek Philippe's contemporary production era. The 33.2mm case size and manual-wind movement cater to those preferring traditional proportions and hand-wound calibers. The ten-year production run from 2005-2015 makes examples readily available in the pre-owned market for collectors focused on modern Patek Philippe ladies' timepieces.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 215 PS
- Case
- 18k White Gold
- Diameter
- 33.2 mm
- Dial
- White
- Water Resist.
- 30m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Breguet Classique Ref. 5177
The Breguet Classique reference 5177 represents an automatic entry within the Classique collection, distinguished by its 38mm case proportions and rose gold construction. This reference utilizes automatic movement technology within the traditional Classique aesthetic framework.
The 38mm case is crafted from 18k rose gold and houses an automatic movement. The silver dial provides contrast against the warm gold case material. Sapphire crystal protects the dial surface, while the watch maintains 30 meters of water resistance. The bezel design remains fixed in position.
Reference 5177 appeals to collectors seeking automatic movement functionality within traditional dress watch proportions. The 38mm case size positions this reference for those preferring mid-sized case dimensions, while the rose gold construction and silver dial combination offers specific aesthetic preferences within the broader Classique automatic range.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 777
- Case
- 18k Rose Gold
- Diameter
- 38 mm
- Dial
- Silver
- Water Resist.
- 30m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Complications Ref. 5231
The Patek Philippe Complications Reference 5231 is a world time watch, distinguished by its cloisonné enamel dial depicting a specific region of the world. This reference continues the tradition of Patek Philippe's world time complications, offering a practical and visually engaging display of multiple time zones simultaneously. It represents a specific aesthetic within the Complications collection, focusing on artistic craftsmanship alongside its mechanical functionality.
This reference features a case typically crafted from precious metals, housing an automatic movement. The case diameter is designed to provide a balanced presence on the wrist while allowing for the detailed dial work. A sapphire crystal protects the dial, offering clear visibility of the intricate enamel map and the city ring. The movement provides a reliable power reserve, consistent with Patek Philippe's standards for its automatic calibers.
For collectors, the 5231 is notable for its limited production and the unique hand-finished cloisonné enamel dials, which vary in their geographical depiction. These variations make each specific iteration of the 5231 a distinct piece within the broader Patek Philippe catalog. It appeals to those who appreciate both high horology and artisanal decorative techniques, fitting into a lineage of artistically enhanced world time watches.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 240 HU
- Case
- 18k yellow gold
- Diameter
- 38.5mm
- Dial
- Cloisonné enamel
- Water Resist.
- 30m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Ref. 5089
The Patek Philippe Reference 5089 is a series of Rare Handcrafts timepieces, often produced in extremely limited editions or as unique pieces. These references are distinguished by their intricate decorative arts, such as enameling, engraving, or marquetry, applied to the dial or case. They represent Patek Philippe's commitment to preserving traditional artisanal techniques within contemporary watchmaking, positioning them as highly collectible examples of decorative horology rather than standard production models.
These timepieces typically feature a precious metal case, often white gold or rose gold, housing a self-winding mechanical movement. The specific caliber varies depending on the individual execution, but it is always finished to Patek Philippe's exacting standards. The crystal is consistently sapphire, providing clear visibility of the meticulously crafted dial. Water resistance is generally modest, reflecting the artistic nature of the watch rather than its utility in demanding environments.
Collector relevance for the 5089 series stems from its extreme rarity and the unique artistic expression each piece embodies. These watches appeal to collectors who prioritize artisanal craftsmanship and exclusivity, often seeking out specific themes or decorative techniques. The 2019 collection for Hausmann & Co.'s 225th anniversary, for example, highlights the potential for bespoke creations and regional tributes within this reference family, further enhancing their desirability and historical significance.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 240 LU CL
- Case
- White Gold
- Diameter
- 38 mm
- Dial
- Multi-color
- Water Resist.
- 30 m
- Crystal
- Sapphire