Comments:
At least you could see it in the metal
That's an interesting question Patekova, showing quite well the differences of approach between us all.
I've seen many examples of people buying online or without seeing the watch in the metal and it seems to work quite well. However, as far as I'm concerned, I must see it in the metal. I don't have to wear it but at least see the proportions, colors, material light reflections in real.
That's why I always do. The result is that the watch is better 95% of the time and less appealing much rarely. Of course depending on where you live, it is more or less difficult to see the one you're looking for.
Anyway, a limited edition might limit the risk and one can try to get it and get rid of it if it finally doesn't fit.
So congratulations for your new 5522 and thank you for sharing. Even if on our forum we are lucky to have many watches shared, we mustn't forget they are very rare to see and very small productions compared to the whole market and demand.
This specific model is something very new for Patek, changes many habits and brings evolutions in the aesthetics standards of a small part of the catalogue. However, I think that time will show that, together with the brand's image and how our standards evolve, this might be a fantastic reference for a more casual wear.
Wear it in the best of health 
Best, Mark
Mark, thanks as always for another thought provoking response!
I think your approach to buying as best I can surmise from your reply and other things you have written is: thoroughly research a prospective purchase, carefully review the watch's attributes, don't rush and see if over time one's desire grows and see it in person before committing. This seems like a great approach for 2 reasons: a diminished likelihood of buyer's remorse, and a heightened anticipation followed by the excitement of the long awaited acquisition.
I think this watch does add a new dimension to the Patek line. Whether it will pass the test of time and continue to be coveted remains to be seen. But right know there seems to be a frenzy to acquire this watch by whatever means are available.
Best, Patekova
I think this watch does add a new dimension to the Patek line. Whether it will pass the test of time and continue to be coveted remains to be seen. But right know there seems to be a frenzy to acquire this watch by whatever means are available.
Best, Patekova
You summarized it perfectly
Of course, we all work differently and I can totally understand that some others prefer to act when they "feel" it
Best, Mark
I think it is often a leap of faith.
Most, if not all, of the modern Patek Philippe that I own have been purchased without having tried the watch on my wrist. I started with the 5970P in this way, and it was initially a stress. However, as one matures in terms of collecting, one becomes more adept at "knowing" what will and what will not work. Of the modern references that I bought from new, I still own every single reference....and that process started some 8 years ago. SO, yes, I think there is always some element of "faith leaping" but I think it changes as we mature as collectors.
100% success rate is pretty amazing!
Suppose, however you love a watch in large part because of the dial, e.g. the 5230 G NY skyline. On the website and in publicity photos it appears to have a captivating royal/navy blue dial and then the watch arrives and it appears more gray/black. One might actually prefer the gray/black, but not having handled the watch before purchasing it, one might on the other hand be disappointed.
Well...
I wouldn't say it was 100% success rate. I would say instead that I still own all the references. I prefer some much more than others so there is still clearly a spectrum of success.
For many of the watches I have bought from new, it has been extremely hard to try them first. Take for example the 5370 or 5650. Getting an opportunity to try and carefully evaluate is not so straightforward. In fact, if I had adopted that approach to the 5650, I would not have one. My old boss taught me in financial markets to shoot first and ask questions later. I think I adopt that approach to an extent with modern watches. Of course, in both scenarios there is an accumulation of knowledge and understanding that becomes instinctive and that helps limit errors. But errors can and will occur.
Let's say, for example, that I bought the 5650 blind and on my wrist really disliked it. What would I do ?
For many of the watches I have bought from new, it has been extremely hard to try them first. Take for example the 5370 or 5650. Getting an opportunity to try and carefully evaluate is not so straightforward. In fact, if I had adopted that approach to the 5650, I would not have one. My old boss taught me in financial markets to shoot first and ask questions later. I think I adopt that approach to an extent with modern watches. Of course, in both scenarios there is an accumulation of knowledge and understanding that becomes instinctive and that helps limit errors. But errors can and will occur.
Let's say, for example, that I bought the 5650 blind and on my wrist really disliked it. What would I do ?