Patek Philippe 5088/100P Engraved Platinum Rare Handcrafts

FabR · 2021-07-24T12:35:30Z

Explore the Patek Philippe Ref. 5088/100P, a platinum Rare Handcrafts timepiece with intricate engraving. Discover collector insights on engraving, marquetry, and enamel.

FabR

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

101 replies18935 views11 photos

FabR, a distinguished Patek Philippe collector, shares the exciting acquisition of his Patek Philippe Ref. 5088/100P, a platinum Rare Handcrafts timepiece featuring intricate engraving. This addition completes his personal collection of Patek Philippe's primary Rare Handcraft techniques, sparking a community-wide discussion on the artistry and appeal of these exceptional watches. His post invites fellow enthusiasts to share their favorite Patek Philippe Rare Handcrafts, offering a unique glimpse into the world of haute horlogerie.

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Dear Friends,

let me (officially) share the joy of the latest addition to my Patek collection, ref. 5088/100P....an in-catalog Rare Handcraft first introduced in 2015, which features a stunning engraved dial (and case, and buckle)!

This beauty in a sense also "completes" my collection of Rare Handcraft techniques, since engraving was the only "main" craft I was unforgivably missing until last night....I was glad to receive it to view when I arrived in Italy back in May (I since learnt that Italy only gets one 5088 allocation a year), so in the end it was impossible not to take it home with me!

Of course, this does in NO WAY complete my Patek collection....in fact, it looks like I might be fortunate enough to be allocated a second (and much more rare) Patek this Fall....more on that later!

So this begs the question of the title: What's your personal favorite, if any, among Patek's Rare Handcrafts?

1) Miniature painting

2) Enamel (in various forms)

3) Wood marquetry

4) Engraving

5) All of the above

Enamel & miniature painting

Engraving (& black enamel)

Wood marquetry

Enamel

And now a few more 5088/100P pictures, as it came home with me yesterday. Soon (but probably after summer), you will see it on a flashy yellow strap...

Its upcoming strap ;-)

Have a great weekend Everyone!

About the Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 5088

The Calatrava reference 5088 is a distinctive offering within Patek Philippe's classic dress watch collection, notable for its intricate hand-engraved decoration. This reference distinguishes itself through its detailed artistic execution, setting it apart from more minimalist Calatrava models. It represents a segment of the collection that emphasizes traditional artisanal crafts, appealing to collectors who value decorative horology.

The watch features a round case, typically crafted from white gold, with a diameter of 38 mm. The entire surface of the case, including the bezel, lugs, and case bands, is adorned with a meticulously hand-engraved floral motif. It is powered by an automatic movement, visible through a sapphire crystal case back, and protected by a sapphire crystal on the dial side. The movement provides a power reserve of approximately 48 hours.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking a Calatrava that combines technical precision with high-level decorative artistry. Its limited production and specialized craftsmanship contribute to its appeal in the secondary market. The 5088 fits into the broader Calatrava lineage as an example of Patek Philippe's commitment to traditional decorative techniques alongside its watchmaking expertise.

Specifications

Caliber: 240 PS C

Case: White Gold

Diameter: 38 mm

Dial: Black

Water Resist.: 30 m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The Patek Philippe Ref. 5088/100P stands out among current and recent champlevé enamel references due to its exquisite craftsmanship, extending the champlevé enameling to the case and pin buckle, not just the dial. The Arabesque and Volutes decor pattern is particularly attractive and challenging to execute.
While many collectors adore Patek Philippe's out-of-catalog Rare Handcrafts or the 5x31 series, the Ref. 5180, a skeletonized interpretation of the caliber 240 movement with extensive engraving, has not resonated with all enthusiasts, despite its technical and artistic merit.
The Patek Philippe Ref. 5088/100P is produced in very limited quantities, significantly less than the 5131 series, making it a rare allocation. There is speculation that this reference might be discontinued soon, adding to its exclusivity.
Wood marquetry, though challenging to compare in terms of difficulty with other crafts, is personally considered one of the most impressive Rare Handcraft techniques by some collectors, highlighting the intricate skill involved.
The Ref. 5180 is recognized as a highly special Rare Handcraft piece because Patek Philippe fundamentally re-engineered the entire caliber 240 movement for its skeletonized design, showcasing a different facet of the brand's artisanal capabilities.
The presence of small hour and minute hands on the engraved dial of the 5088/100P is noted as a minor design element that, while functional, can be easily overlooked, allowing the wearer to focus on the artistic beauty of the engraving.

The Discussion

FRAMII

Jul 24, 2021

Congratulations 👍👍 very hard to say which one is the favorite… all would be my answer

Fram

FabR

Jul 24, 2021

Thanks my friend, I didn't want to express a preference, but I'd be hard for me as well (theme of the watch aside, since as you know I have a strong love affair with Boccadasse...but that's independent of the technique! ;-))

FRAMII

Jul 24, 2021

To be completely honest

This would be my favorite And this at equally beautiful (shared first place 🥇) Your collection is just fantastic 👍👍👍👍👍 Fram

FabR

Jul 24, 2021

Thanks a lot, Fram -- great to have a first vote also for the wood marquetry and for J.B. (the only person authorized to make these incredible dials for Patek -- hence also their rarity compared to the other crafts!). Cheers :-)

Chronometer (aka yacomino)

Jul 24, 2021

Big congrats Fabrizio. They are all super special but I must say I love the miniature 🖼! Also, please show us more of these colourful shoes!

FabR

Jul 24, 2021

Thanks for your feedback my friend -- the Boccadasse buildings will be thankful for the selection of miniature painting! :-)

And as a bonus, here's Boccadasse (though it's hard to spot on the wrist) with some blue eels.... Also good for the office, the way I finance my Pateks! ;-))