Patek Philippe

So simply forget it without making the issue complicated.

My favourite AC (plus chronograph) is 5960/1A. On the second place is 5960P, then 5450P. Because 5450P might be difficult to locate at least with reasonable amount of money, have a looks at 5146. That is available in all three golds plus platinum.

Best, Kari

but 5960P was the winner in my books. Just a matter of taste.

Best, Kari

We all have our tastes on that matter.

Personally, I like the 5X96 family very much, a lot of discretion and a timeless and pure style.

Looking at a watch live and and picture are 2 very different things. That's why a watch should always be judged on the wrist before making a conclusion.

I tried this 5396 (pictures below) and this is absolutely not an issue for me, though I totally understand that some may not like it.

So, in the end, it depends on you. If this is something bothering you then don't buy it. If you notice it because you read someone talking about it, then try it and choose it if it works for you.

It is hard to find flawless watches, especially since it is also a matter of subjectivity and tastes from the observer.

You asked also to provide some alternatives but we would need to know a little more about what you're looking for, what matters to you (complication, what use, etc...).

When comparing watches from pictures, the problem would be to miss what is not visible (technically wise) and especially the diference of finishing a picture can't show. The case's shape, the movement decoration and finishing (thus how it plays with light), the details (minute nails work, applied numerals' shape, etc...), the comfort and size etc...

There are so many alternatives in that kind of complication. The annual Calendar is also available in the 5205R (silver and black dial) or the 5960R (discontinued but still possible to find). You should definitely look at them because they are one of the best offers in that field.

The 5960R with two different dials. This watch is absolutely gorgeous and brings a lot in terms of complications (AC and Chronograph):

Have a nice hunt and get what you really like.

Best, Mark

I saw the 5205R with the black dial and it is a watch very enjoyable to admire.

Thanks for your input

Best, Mark

Whilst both are rather different timepieces, I hope to also view the Breguet 7337 and A. Lange & Söhne Lange 1 Moonphase timepieces. Whilst I generally like much of Vacheron Constantin's design language, particularly in the Patrimony collection, they do not appear to have a watch that I would consider a competitor to those that I or others have mentioned, though I will also visit their new boutique in London to enquire on the matter further.

With respect to Mark in Paris' question; from the above, I suppose that it is clear that I am not entirely set on a single manufacture or set of functions at this stage, though I am generally looking for a piece that is classically-cased (though not necessarily conservatively so) and includes at least the date and moonphase alongside the time. Many of the standard strengths of the peer group under consideration are prerequisites, for exam the quality of the timepiece, the in house mechanism, the finishing, the reliability and the after sales services.

This process started when Patek Philippe released the referenced timepiece and I was immediately extremely keen on it. It was only on further reflection that I began to question the design in the manner described. As such, in a way, I am using negative selection to assess whether the referenced timepiece is the one for me or if another offering 'sings to me' more.

Thank you all again.

Have a nice time

Best, Mark