Rhyzen's insightful review of the Patek Philippe 5327G Perpetual Calendar offers a deep dive into a modern classic. His personal experience and detailed observations highlight the subtle yet significant design choices that define this reference, making it a compelling read for both seasoned collectors and those new to Patek Philippe's perpetual calendar lineage. This article explores why the 5327G, with its distinctive blue dial and Breguet numerals, continues to captivate enthusiasts.
I feel compelled to write a short review of my recently acquired Patek Philippe 5327G Perpetual Calendar, which has been an absolute joy on the wrist.
Launched in 2016, the 5327 replaces the earlier 5140 (launched in 2006), itself the successor of the legendary 3940 (launched in 1985). I do not have the fortune of owning either of the two earlier references, but noted that despite the common DNA, the seemingly subtle differences are actually very much pronounced. As such, the collection of all three iterations would be a worthy consideration.
The 5327 family comprises three versions: yellow and rose gold with ivory dial, and white gold with blue. It is the latter that best captured my imagination. Gorgeously decked in sunburst royal blue, the dial takes on a decidedly
different character depending on the lighting. Seeing the hypnotic dial
in person was what committed me to this acquisition.
The application of the white gold Breguet numerals is a master stroke that differentiates the 5327 from its illustrious predecessors. Coupled with the leaf-shaped hands, it adds a dash of romanticism to the classic Quantième Perpétuel layout, and fills what would otherwise be an uncomfortable expanse of emptiness given the increase in diameter from the 5140's 37.2mm, itself an increase from 3940's 36mm, to a more contemporary 39mm.
The sensuousness is accentuated by the svelte case, measuring just 9.7mm in thickness; remarkable given the complication. The scalloped lugs add a further degree of curvaceousness to the brilliantly polished case.
The fold-over clasp featuring the iconic Calatrava cross is beautifully constructed. Having said that, I must confess that I swapped it out for a prong buckle due to personal preference.
The watch weighs approximately 80g in the leather strap and prong
buckle configuration, and sits very comfortably on the wrist all day.
The venerable calibre 240Q, introduced almost four decades ago in 1985 with the introduction of the 3940, is retained in the 5327G with all the modern Patek refinements of Gyromax balance and Spiromax spring. Bearing the Patek Philippe seal, the movement is well-finished with the mini-rotor taking centre stage, and is a pleasant sight to behold. I find setting the perpetual calendar to be a pretty straight-forward affair.
The 5327G has proved to be a joyful companion on the wrist. Will let pictures do the talking.
The 5327G is a representation of what Patek Philippe does most brilliantly: the amalgamation of classicism and romanticism, juxtaposed with modernity. It has succeeded in eliciting a very different set of emotions in me as compared to my other watches, and that makes it extremely joyful to wear them in rotation.
Thank you for reading.
About the Patek Philippe Grand Complications Ref. 3940
The Patek Philippe Reference 3940 is a perpetual calendar wristwatch that was introduced in 1985, succeeding the Reference 3450. It is notable for its relatively slim profile and the integration of a perpetual calendar complication in a refined case. This reference became a cornerstone of Patek Philippe's complicated watch offerings for nearly two decades, establishing a design language for subsequent perpetual calendar models. It represents a significant period in the brand's modern history of complicated timepieces.
The watch features a 36mm case, typically crafted from yellow gold, rose gold, white gold, or platinum. It houses the self-winding Caliber 240 Q movement, which is known for its micro-rotor construction, contributing to the movement's thinness and allowing for a slimmer case profile. The movement provides a power reserve of approximately 48 hours. The dial is protected by a sapphire crystal, often accompanied by an interchangeable solid case back and a sapphire display back.
Reference 3940 is highly regarded by collectors for its classic proportions and the enduring appeal of its perpetual calendar display, which includes day, date, month, leap year cycle, and moon phases. It was produced in several series, with subtle variations in dial layout and typography, making early series examples particularly sought after. The reference is considered a benchmark for perpetual calendar watches and remains a significant piece for those appreciating traditional horological complications.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 240 Q
- Case
- Yellow Gold, Rose Gold, White Gold, Platinum
- Diameter
- 36mm
- Dial
- Silver, White, Opaline
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Perpetual Calendar Ref. 5140
The Patek Philippe Reference 5140 is a perpetual calendar wristwatch, succeeding the highly regarded Reference 3940. It maintains the classic Patek Philippe perpetual calendar layout, featuring day, date, month, leap year, and moon phase indications. The 5140 was introduced with a slightly larger case diameter than its predecessor, reflecting contemporary preferences while retaining a traditional aesthetic. This reference was produced from 2006 to 2019.
This reference is powered by the ultra-thin self-winding Caliber 240 Q, known for its micro-rotor construction which allows for a slender case profile. The movement provides a power reserve of 48 hours. The watch is presented in 18k white gold, rose gold, or yellow gold cases, measuring 39 mm in diameter and 8.5 mm in thickness, and is fitted with a sapphire crystal. It offers water resistance to 30 meters. The bezel is concave and polished.
The 5140 appeals to collectors seeking a modern perpetual calendar with a direct lineage to Patek Philippe's established complications. Its production run saw various dial configurations, including opaline and silvery finishes. The watch is typically paired with a leather strap and a deployant clasp, consistent with Patek Philippe's classic offerings. It includes a 24-hour indication as part of its perpetual calendar display.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 240 Q
- Case
- 18k White Gold, Rose Gold, or Yellow Gold
- Diameter
- 39 mm
- Dial
- Opaline, Silvery
- Water Resist.
- 30m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
