Patek Philippe 2021 Rare Handcrafts Collection

FabR · 2021-06-16T09:03:33Z

Explore Patek Philippe's 2021 Rare Handcrafts collection. Discover exquisite enameling, marquetry, and engraving on unique timepieces and dome clocks.

FabR

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

61 replies14968 views13 photos

FabR, a respected voice in the Patek Philippe community, provides an invaluable first look at the 2021 Rare Handcrafts collection. His initial post, rich with images and details, captures the excitement of this highly anticipated release after a 20-month hiatus. This article synthesizes community reactions and expert opinions, offering a comprehensive overview of Patek Philippe's artistic horology.

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Dear All,

the 2021 Rare Handcraft collection was just released moments ago! Please see Patek's official site at:

Patek Philippe Official Site | Luxury Watches for Men & Ladies

As usual, we can admire a variety of crafts among these in- and out-of-catalog, special references, ranging from wood marquetry to several techniques of enameling, from engraving to miniature painting. Similarly to previous years, the 2021 Collection includes both wristwatches, pocket watches, and clocks. Of the six "in-catalog" models, four are minute repeaters.

This is the first selection of Rare Handcrafts to be offered since Fall 2019, when a few limited editions were produced on the occasion of the Singapore Exhibit. A very long 20 months....but it was totally worth the wait! ;-)

I'm traveling for much of today and tomorrow, so my apologies if I'll be slower than usual, but I will update this thread ASAP with further information and details as I receive them! ;-)

Hope you will enjoy these spectacular combinations of art and horology as much as I do! If I had to choose only one brand, and only one line of watches....my choice would be Patek, and its Rare Handcrafts collection!

Cheers.

Golden Ellipse 5738/51G-001, engraved

5177G-024 ”Falcon head" in wood marquetry

5177G-028 in enamel

5089G-101 in enamel

Golden Ellipse 5738/50G-022 "Roman garden", in enamel

5177G-023 ”Medieval ornaments", in enamel

The amazing 6002R-001

5304/301R-001

Another ”in-catalog" entry and minute repeater: 5374G-001

7040/250G-001 for Ladies, also ”in catalog"

7118/1450G-001

10021M, a dome clock in enamel and miniature painting

Another stunning dome clock, 20097M, combining several enamel techniques

About the Patek Philippe Complications Ref. 175thcollection

The Patek Philippe 175th Anniversary Collection, launched in 2014, comprises a series of highly complex and limited-edition timepieces created to commemorate the manufacture's significant milestone. This collection showcases Patek Philippe's mastery across various horological disciplines, featuring a diverse array of complications and artistic crafts. Each model within the collection represents a distinct facet of the brand's heritage and technical prowess, designed for discerning collectors.

The collection includes models with a variety of precious metal cases, such as rose gold, white gold, and platinum, with dimensions and thicknesses varying significantly depending on the specific reference. Movements are exclusively mechanical, encompassing both manual-winding and automatic calibers, many of which are newly developed or highly modified for these special editions. Sapphire crystals are universally employed, and water resistance ratings vary by model, reflecting their specific design and intended function.

This anniversary collection appeals to collectors seeking exceptional examples of contemporary haute horlogerie and significant pieces within Patek Philippe's modern history. The limited production numbers and the complexity of the movements ensure their continued relevance in the secondary market. The collection includes a wide spectrum of complications, from world timers and chronographs to grand complications, offering a varied selection for different collecting interests.

Specifications

Caliber: Multiple calibers depending on specific model within the collection

Case: Precious metal

Diameter: Varies depending on specific model within the collection

Dial: Varies depending on specific model within the collection

Water Resist.: Varies depending on specific model within the collection

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The Sky Moon Tourbillon 6002R-001, while stunning with its brown enamel and extensive engraving, was considered by some to be too baroque. However, the new Ladies First Minute Repeater 7040/250G-001 impressed with its flamme gem setting, guilloché and blue flinqué enamel dial, and distinctive spear-designed hands and hour markers.
A forum member who visited the collection in person highlighted the exceptional quality of the wood marquetry pieces, specifically mentioning the 'panda' and 'gorilla head' designs as awe-inspiring, and noted that conversations with Patek Philippe experts added significant depth to the experience.
While acknowledging other brands offer similar pieces, the consensus among collectors is that Patek Philippe's execution of rare handcrafts remains unparalleled. The 2021 collection's Golden Ellipse and 5088P models feature similar motifs, with the limited 5088P and 50th-anniversary limited Ellipse sharing identical engraving designs.
Several collectors expressed a strong preference for the 'Medieval ornaments' enamel piece and the falcon-themed watches, including both wrist and pocket versions, indicating a diverse appreciation for the collection's artistic range.
The 'Roman Gardens' dome clock, combining multiple enamel techniques, was singled out as particularly mesmerizing, showcasing the brand's mastery beyond wristwatches.
The sentiment that Patek Philippe truly distinguishes itself through its rare handcrafts, surpassing competitors in craftsmanship and artistry, was a recurring theme among contributors.

The Discussion

dedestexhes

Jun 16, 2021

These are amazing, specifically the falcon. Thx for sharing!

FabR

Jun 16, 2021

Thanks my friend, one of my favorites as well, and I believe the only wood marquetry wristwatch this year! ;-) Thread updated also with a couple of table clocks among today's timepieces. Cheers ;-)

anaroku

Jun 16, 2021

thanks for letting me know. All the models are out of reach, but this year is a good harvest.

FabR

Jun 16, 2021

My pleasure Shun, indeed a pretty gorgeous and very diverse lineup this year! My best recommendation is to show interest with your AD or Patek, if you like a specific model -- of course the competition will be stiff, but you never know! ;-) Cheers.

chris7509

Jun 16, 2021

Nice !

I like the falcon too both the pocket watch and wrist one ... I found some table clocks and pocket watches very very nice ... ( i m getting older...) but for the wrist ones, i have not been striked by love at first sight with this year proposal. Most probably my favorite is the mediaval ornament ones .. Overall the good news is that i still get to keep my 2nd kidney this year and will focus on the potential 5231G or R when it will be released !!!

FabR

Jun 16, 2021

A great way to look at it! ;-)) I'm normally not interested in table clocks or pocket watches myself, but they are definitely *big* works of art as well! ;-) Thanks for commenting.

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Patek Philippe 2021 Rare Handcrafts Collection

About the Patek Philippe Complications Ref. 175thcollection

Specifications

Key Points from the Discussion

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