samwan
2729
A Visit to the Geneva Salon
Recently I had a chance to make a trip to Lyon and was delighted to learn that it is less than two hours by train to Geneva. I of course seized the opportunity to pay a much-awaited visit to Patek Philippe's Geneva Salon. I had wanted to visit the Patek Museum but unfortunately it was closed on Monday, which was the only day I could make the trip.
Nevertheless, I was received by a charming lady watch adviser Nayna who is extremely professional and knowledgeable about Patek's various references. The highlight was a visit to the fifth floor of the Salon to appreciate the grand complications and this more than make up for my disappointment.
Looking out to Lake Geneva from the building's window, which reminded me of my 5089G (Geneva lakeside postcards in marquetry art, see bottom picture)
The first thing that caught my eye - a classy chandelier at the lift lobby:
Looking out to Lake Geneva from the building's window, which reminded me of my 5089G (Geneva lakeside postcards in marquetry art, see bottom picture)
Near the entrance is a dome clock - I was told this was only a display item because it is slightly flawed, and therefore not for sale....
First on stage is a 5160G with some marvelous engraving - this was the first time I saw this model in the flesh and put it on the wrist. Was I foolish to pass over it two months ago?
Then, a piece that sang to me, literally - the 5178G. I love the enamel dial and the Breguet indices. I had taken a video of the chime but sadly, could not load it from my smart phone onto the Purist site
This model comes in two sizes - 40mm and 38mm. I prefer the larger version and therefore, than the old 5078
Followed by the 5374P, a new model replacing the 5074, if I am not mistaken
And a 5372P - this model has two dials - one in rose gold and one in blue. Somehow the rose gold dial seems more subtle to me
And the grand finale - a 5208P, an (instanteneous) perpetual calendar minute repeating (monopusher) chronograph
I am starting to save up 
Guess what is my next target?
Guess what is my next target?Cheers
Sam
PS - Here is the 5089G
A Visit to the Geneva Salon
Recently I had a chance to make a trip to Lyon and was delighted to learn that it is less than two hours by train to Geneva. I of course seized the opportunity to pay a much-awaited visit to Patek Philippe's Geneva Salon. I had wanted to visit the Patek M...
Hi Sam, glad that you had a great trip and happy that you shared your experience at the Salon with us !
Next target must be a MR, right ? There are so many meaningful MRs for you to choose from. Perhaps a pair of MRs ?! Cheers, Gordon p.s. The 5089 marquetry piece looks wonderful!
Agreed
This is the pinnacle of watchmaking. I was lucky to have the chance to play around with so many different grails. Best
Thank your for sharing your amazing experience!
Everything you pictured is beautiful but I have definitely a weak for the 5208P, grey dial, PC and MR what should one ask more? Best.
At one point, it was the most complicated wrist watch.
The PC is instantaneous (not dragging date changes) amd the sunburst dial is to die for....
A nice journey :)
I see that you've spent a very nice time in the area. Yes, the Salon (I haven't visited yet) seems to be a wonderful place to visit (next to the Patek Museum) and I see that you've been able to try very complicated pieces. The 5160 is also something very ...
Thanks Mark
I had a great time on this trip. Geneva old town is charming . I spent a few days in Paris as well. The Paris Salon, compared to the one in Geneva, is somewhat disappointing. Chronopassion is closed but I spent some quality time at the Lange & Sohne bouti...
My guess Sam
would be the 5178G for you. The cathedral chime and the 40mm case seems to fit you brilliantly. The dial is discreetly elegant with the applied Breguet numerals and hands. I personally am partial to the 38mm 5078G and wish I could say saving up would help...
Did they give you an indication
as to how long you may need to wait for the 5178G Sam? I have little doubt it will be part of your incomparable collection soon.
I am still trying to decide if I should order through
My AD or directly from the Salon. Delicate matter....
I guess the waiting list at the Salon
would be longer but they probably get preferential treatment
You are very lucky to visit the Geneva saloon.
To hear and see those mr are a joy. Thank you for posting your travels. Best wishes. Geross
Thanks for the report
This salon is just a great place to visit and the services level is also great. Last time I visited i tried these crazy models K ...
The Geneva Salon is wonderful
but try to make some time for the museum on your next trip as it is a mecca for watch lovers. I have visited it three time including one personal conducted tour which Patek had kindly organised on my birthday but one will never get tired visiting this min...
Many thanks for this.
Shame the museum was closed, but the Geneva salon is as special as it is because it is a "living" museum - you can taste the history in the air and of course handle (and listen to) the exhibits. No trip to GVA is complete without it and they are always we...
Thank you for sharing the pics from your visit to the Geneva Salon!
And thank you for advising us not to do the "pilgrimage" on a Monday to enable us to get the chance to visit the Patek Museum. I would go for the 5078 - 38mm is a sweet spot for me and the enamel dial is definitely to die for. How long is your visit? For ...
The Salon is open from 10 am to 6 pm
But it is closed on certain days - please check the web site... I spent two hours at the museum and I guess a day would be enough including the museum. Yes, the 5078 had been my target but the 5178 seems to grow on me more and more....
You are most fortunate Sam!
I can see that the 40mm 5178 fits your wrist perfectly but like Greenwatch above, the 38mm 5078 would be within my comfort zone. Unfortunately, I will have to miss out on the cathedral gongs!
Ms Nayna was fantastic.
She gave my wife and I the grand tour when we visited in November. Glad you had the same experience. Aloha, Bob