
Mark in Paris initiates a lively discussion anticipating Patek Philippe's 2016 novelties ahead of the Basel fair. His post encourages the community to speculate on potential new references, particularly focusing on perpetual calendars and chronographs, and the evolving design language of the esteemed manufacture.
Dear forumners,
I imagine
that you are aware that the Basel fair will open its doors for the 2016
Millesime next week. Hence, it is time to make your wish (and your bet!)
We are familiar with pre-exhibition rumors related to this kind of events, we don't know yet if they are reliable or not but what I'm curious to know is what would be the very few (let's say 3) watches that you would really like or expect to see.
It can be an existing reference in another color or a completely new one (in replacement of the previous generation or a true "First"). It is always difficult to choose between stepping into the historical generations' footsteps and making something completely new, in order to prepare the future and bring diversity or evolutions to a DNA.
We all have different approach on this matter but I think they all answer to our instincts and true desires.
We've made a post about the Nautilus 40th anniversary (here: www.watchprosite.com ) mentioning that we don't know yet if it will be celebrated during the Basel fair or later in the year. Hence, let's stick to the other families.
So, what's
on the menu...
Perpetual Calendar-only model
To start with, both 5130 and 5140 were introduced in 2006, thus they are already 10 years old. I think it is a nice life time, even if we've seen much shorter, as well as much longer presence in the catalogue in the past for Patek references. Furthermore, the 5130 and 5140's cases' design was a cousin of the previous Calatrava range (5107 and 5127).
This being
said, I think I'm really looking forward to discovering a new Perpetual
Calendar-only reference this year, especially to discover a new case
work as Patek makes, from my taste perspective, the most beautiful ones among
traditional brands: a tremendous refinement in a charming and
classical dress. As I said in my 5227R review (here: www.watchprosite.com
), its case is a piece of art with
elegant curves and little discreet grooves which bring the reference into what
beautiful classical style can be interpreted to be today. This case could be
used as a base.

The next 5170R or 5170P
Of course, we can see several references where a metal color is still missing. I have selected only 2 versions, in the same family: the 5170R and P.
With a new dial with Arabic (non-Breguet) numerals at 12 and 6 only and applied markers (baton or nail shaped) for the other hours. And dauphine or leaf hands
The point is not to make copies, what patek never did but to search for inspiration in the DNA and style patterns of previous masterpieces.
Thus, here are
some examples inspiration can be taken from (pictures from Antiquorum database). Those older references must remain unique and this is what Patek always respected with no tributes in its catalogue. However, what is gorgeous and timeless remains so.
The classical version...

Or the
wonderful sector dial (like on the gold and steel versions
here below). I don't think Patek will release a Steel version for many reasons
but it will remain evn more stunning in Pt and R from my
PoV.
These are my 2 choices for this year.
I'll be curious to read about yours!
Cheers, Mark
___________________
The Patek Philippe Calatrava Reference 5107 represents the Officer's Case variant within the Calatrava collection, distinguished by its hinged dust cover design. This reference was produced from 2006 to 2010, offering collectors a traditional officer's watch configuration in the classic Calatrava format.
The 5107 features a 36mm case available in 18k yellow gold or 18k white gold, fitted with a smooth bezel and sapphire crystal. The manual-wind Caliber 215 PS movement provides 44 hours of power reserve. Dial options include ivory, silver, or black finishes, paired with a leather strap. Water resistance is rated to 30 meters.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking a traditional officer's case configuration with the protective hinged dust cover. The 36mm sizing and manual movement positioning make it suitable for those preferring classic proportions and traditional winding mechanisms. The limited four-year production window and multiple material options provide collecting depth within this specific Calatrava variant.
Furthermore, a 5170P with black (or white) enamel dial would be great. White would make a nice pair with 5370P. I like your idea about new perpetual using 5127 type of case. But then a new calibre would also be needed. Then World Time... that's such a classic complication that there's no modern Patek collection without one. My guess is that they have developed the movement in such a way that the time zone can be adjusted either plus or minus one hours. Finally, I believe there will be a Big Surp
And an instant sell out. I will be very interested if it happens.
Anyhow, I have already ordered it. Best, Kari
And maybe the 5524 will come in a steel version? Black dial? I think your line of thought is very sensible. After a pilot a diver wouldn\'t be illogical at all. And very surprising. And \'everybody\' would want one. If it\'s as bold as the 5524. Mmmmm a younger Patek line....sounds great!
That would follow the Rolex way. Also after thinking a bit my discussions with people who know, a new perpetual version of 5496 sounds very logical. A diver's Patek would be really a hot item. In order to keep the slimness, a water resistance of 200 m would be enough. Simple Aquanaut, 43 mm and the diver's bezel as an extension of the dial. Style AP... Best, Kari
Not that a rotatable bezel is perse necessary to do so... Guess that the name Aquanaut would be most logical for a dive watch. BUT The Nautilus could be used for a yacht master kind of watch A count down of 10 mins for sailing matches could fit Patek very well. I mean: a beautiful classic sailing yacht is also being preserved for the next generation ;-)
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