Patek Philippe

Question for Patek collectors..... As far as Patek Philippe watches are concerned, despite the fact that they are unique in the world of watches, and true pieces to admire, the philosophy of hiding the tourbillon behind the dial kept me always somewhat..... well, maybe "disappointed"... Even though one can understand the attitude that the "balance wheel is a regulating organ, not a piece of decoration", one can always argue then with the again unnecessary decorations of the oscillating weight, bridges, etc. Breguet has risen in the last 9-10 years with clean beautiful tourbillons that have attracted enthousiasts of this "complication" that has become much more of an expression of luxury, rather than a neccessary timing feature. Would you, as admirers of the manufacturer, and the heritage it carries, like to see a more "explicit" kind of Tourbillon, one that would reveal itself on the face of the timepiece? If yes, on which ref. ? br, T

manufacturers like portions of the movement to be exposed.  Just my preference.

Hi,

IMO there are enough tourbillons on dials around.

I like plain dials,and prefer to see tourbillons on the back, like in the PPs, in the Reverso Tourbillon (the "simple" one), or in some GP models.

The exception would be the Haldimman or the Omega central tourbillon models, in which models the dial is not really open!

If I have to see the tourbillon on the dial, I prefer fully open dials like the Breguet La Tradition Tourbillon or some GP "under three bridges".

But for PP, no thank you not for me!

Cheers

Dje

seen this watch in metal....

Does it have a see through back?

Cheers

nt

nt

If someone has a photo to post please do so...

Thanks....

Cheers

So it is absoultely in the spirit of Patek to keep the tourbillon at the back There is also a semi-official explanation from Thiery Stern that day I met with him at a Patek dinner in Hong Kong in 2006. That was before he inherit the CEO position. He did say that the hidden position of the tourbillon was deigned to lessen photo-degradation of the special lubricant and hence maintaining the accuracy of tourbillon per se. Whichever way, I support the hidden design. Please do not change it before I can save up enough to buy one! (Perhaps in 2018) Cheers, Larry

and it was very nice and stealthy. I love tourbillons and actually prefer to see them on the dial but for this model and most Patek models I think they should be left on the backside. I actually prefer my tourbillons to be in very modern watch IE Richard Mille.

That's just my 2 cents

You can argue that tourbillons don't provide any specific advantage to wristwatches (I suppose that JLC would challenge this comment after winning the Neuchatel competition) besides an aesthetic pleasure. Therefore, why deprive the user of the pleasure of contemplating it rotate? Also, if the tourbillon is just for the pleasure of the owner, perhaps just to enjoy in private via a display back, why have the word "tourbillon" written on the dial? And finally, if Patek is so worried about the effect of UV radiation on a certain type of oil used to lubricate the tourbillon, may I kindly suggest that they try applying some coating to the glass? Like in sunglasses? If they really wanted to make an ultra-stealth tourbillon they should house it in a standard case (without a display back) plus standard dial. Only then would it really make sense... or perhaps then it wouldn't?

It is a personal preference at some point true enough. However I believe the logic of the hidden Tourbillon is that Patek does this intentional due to the possible exposure to the sun and artificial light that will dry out the oils and lubricants that are necessary for the time piece. For me again a personal opinion ( so please do not take offense it's not my intention) I prefer the more logical / scientific approach rather than the aesthetic one.

Hope this helps in gaining insight!

warm regards,

Revy

I think Patek does this the best among any brand out there. Period.

A tourbillon complication is not necessary to be shown outside. I like the fact that Patek hides the tourbillon away from view and it gives the watch a truly low-key look.

Truly beautiful things don't need to be seen; the simple knowledge of its existence is sufficient. Cover your fur coat; it'll keep you warmer. Or have fur on the inside of the coat.

Thanks everyone for the personal view you shared...

Of course, this discussion can go over and over, and the truth is that there is a cup of tea for every taste out there.

Personally, I find other complications more useful, a simple chrono, Annual or Perpetual Calendar, but this will, i am sure, remain a topic that will often be discussed about....

Cheers,

T

I consider tourbillons to be a "Drivetrain" complication and a "Passive" complication.  It's something that you don't see. 

Chornographs, perpetual calendars, minute repeaters, etc. I consider to be "Active" complications. 

Back to passive complications; personally; my favorite passive complication is the Chain and Fusee transmission. 

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