Mark in Paris
[Purist]
10488
5396
Well, this is a very personal issue. Some people have problems with window dates, cut numerals, luminova, fonts type or size etc... And some don't.
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 5205R (credit: EDJA on PuristSPro). A great looking Patek with the AC complication:
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
Patek Philippe 5396; central hands overlapping 24 hour indicator
Dear all, I have been considering the purchase of a Patek Philippe 5396R-012. The principal questions overhanging my decision on this timepiece are both aesthetic and linked to one another; In electing to include a 24 hour indicator, Patek Philippe was no...
Clearly you do not like the watch enough to buy it.
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. T...
Where does the 5905P stands.
I loved this watch as soon as I saw it for the first time and I still do,But the 5960 won. A very close friend just bought the same watch in the photo about,It\'s nice but I have to say it lacks something.I had the feeling that it started it\'s life as a ...
I bought 5905P
but 5960P was the winner in my books. Just a matter of taste. Best, Kari
I don't think the date on a subdials is particularly easy to read and prefer
In a window. The 24 hour indicator is a "so what" and on,u useful when setting the time. You would probably prefer the 5146
5396
Well, this is a very personal issue. Some people have problems with window dates, cut numerals, luminova, fonts type or size etc... And some don't. We all have our tastes on that matter. Personally, I like the 5X96 family very much, a lot of discretion an...
The 5960R also came with a black dial.
It was introduced in 2012 and discontinued two years later.
Indeed
I didn't mention it as it seems our OP was going for a rose gold silver dial combination, but you're right, this black dial is also something to consider. I saw the 5205R with the black dial and it is a watch very enjoyable to admire. Thanks for your inpu...
I share your criticism about the 24 h indicator but for a different reason
What"puts me off" is that you have got two time displays. Now the 24 h display makes setting easier and safer but still I do not "like" it. Lange's ACs do not have the 24 h display and do not use windows neither. Lange has next to an automatic AC also rel...
5146
Take a look at the 5146, which has a power reserve indicator instead of the 24 hour indicator. ...
5396 case is too simplified.
Unlike most other Pateks where you can find beautiful contours.
I love my 5396G
the dial changes so much with light that really makes it alive. So understated so Patek. Have you consider the first dial versions, whatever version you are looking at, go and try it first. ...
This may be a contrary opinion...
...but I agree with your points. This is both poorly executed and an inexcusable lapse of design sense from a company like PP.
This was not a well designed watch
in my view but a lot of folks love it. Beauty is in the beholder.
Timeless Design
I recently had a choice between the 5396G, 5146G, and 5205G. I also wondered the same thing about the 24 hour indicator. After months of contemplation, I opted for the 5396G because it has a timeless design, based on the classic PP Calatrava design. You w...
Thank you for your kind input and advice thus far!
Over this next week, I intend to take the time to visit the Patek Philippe boutique and some authorised dealers in London to view the referenced timepiece and those suggested by the forum participants in this thread. Whilst both are rather different timep...
This is the way to go
Have a look, even several times to the watches you might appreciate, and even the ones you didn't really think of. This will help tuning your opinion. Have a nice time Best, Mark