Collection
Christianch seeks community input on his next Patek Philippe acquisition, comparing the Golden Ellipse Ref. 3738/100G-012, Calatrava Ref. 5127G, and Nautilus Ref. 5712G-001. His post delves into the personal considerations of size, comfort, and aesthetic preference, particularly highlighting the Golden Ellipse's understated appeal despite its lower popularity in forums.
So I am enclosing some photos (sorry for the quality) of both the 3738/100G-012 and the Nautilus 5712G-001 that is among the few Nautilus available in store. I do like white gold but after another wrist test today apparently the 5712G-001 might be too big (and somehow heavy) on my wrist. I have other heavier watches in my collections and, from my experience, I end up wearing them very little this is why I am now much more inclined toward the Golden Ellipse 
The Patek Philippe Calatrava reference 5127 represents a distinct iteration within the Calatrava line, characterized by its inclusion of crown guards, a feature not commonly found on many other Calatrava models. This design element provides a slightly sportier aesthetic and contributes to a more robust wrist presence compared to its more minimalist counterparts. It was offered alongside other Calatrava references, providing collectors with a choice that balanced traditional Calatrava elegance with a subtle contemporary edge.
The 5127 features a 37 mm case, available in various precious metals. The watch is powered by an automatic movement, visible through a sapphire crystal case back. The front crystal is also sapphire, ensuring durability and clarity. The case design, with its integrated crown guards, distinguishes it from other Calatrava references that typically feature a more exposed crown.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking a Calatrava with a slightly more pronounced and protected profile. Its availability in different precious metals, such as white gold (5127G), rose gold (5125R), and platinum (5110P, though the 5127 is distinct), allowed for varied collecting opportunities. The 5127 occupies a specific niche for those who appreciate the Calatrava's classic proportions but desire the added visual and functional element of crown guards.
Patek Nautilus Annual Calendar ref. 5726. Size 40.5 mm. Patek Travel Time ref. 5134P, diameter 37 mm. Patek Calatrava ref. 5196P. Size 37 mm. Patek Golden Ellipse 3738/100-G. Size 31.1 x 35.6 mm. Patek Nautilus ref. 3712. Size 40 mm. The wrist is always the same and the size of my wrist is about 8 inches, 200 mm. So what can you conclude from the pictures. In my opinion just one thing: all the watches fit well to my wrist even the sizes are quite different. To make it simple: take the watch you
thanks a lot for the gorgeous pictures :) I think my wrist is 8 cm or around that so perhaps much smaller ! All watches look great on you. Note the new ellipse has now a grey dial (WG version) I am sure that collectors are perhaps more attracted by the traditional blue one like yours (this is also probably why I could find this available in the boutique).
is nowadays offered with gray dial. Mine is the old version with blue dial but the size is the same. Don't pay any attention what collectors like and what collectors don't like. There are also fashionable watches that might be "in" today but very much "out" next year. Golden Ellipse is not very "in" at the moment but soon again smaller and very slim watches might be fashionable again. Keep in mind that 3738 is less than 6 mm thick. Did you notice that 3738 and 5712G are both sharing the same 240
Thanks Karl, Truly I did consider your point about getting the Nautilus because of the extra complication that makes it indeed a totally different watch and at a different price point. One think I dislike a bit is the need to switch strap in order to use it in the water. I am also gravitating toward the elipse as it is a bit more unique and I will probably wear it more. Obviously the Nautilus 5712G-001 is a more "important" piece and not that common either. I agree that collectors taste varies a
also 5124G is a wonderful watch - I have it in front of me in an open box even I'm wearing just now Aquanaut 5167. Some of the watches I would never give away from my small collection are 3738, 3712 and 5124G. They all are very different but they all are der to me. Best, Kari
The 5124G was the first Patek I wanted to buy. It is truly gorgeous and special ! I have not got this yet and went for the 5127G as the automatic/date combination + the great classic design made it more interesting. It was also rare to see it available before Christmas so I went for it. Today I got the 3738 so perhaps will have to think for the Gondolo for the next Birthday or who knows. It is a really beautiful piece with a special design. Not so much availability of it here as when I was hunti
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