Patek Philippe 5489 Trapezoid Reference Guide
Reference Guide

Patek Philippe 5489 Trapezoid Reference Guide

By quattro · Feb 21, 2025 · 10 replies
quattro
WPS member · Patek Philippe forum
10 replies9132 views42 photos
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In this fascinating exploration, quattro delves into the distinctive Patek Philippe ref. 5489 'Trapèze,' a reference that has captivated his imagination despite never seeing it in person. He meticulously showcases the rose gold 5489R-001, enriched with stunning photography by @petitsamourai, while drawing intriguing design parallels to vintage LeCoultre and Wittnauer trapezoid models. This article highlights the enduring appeal of unique case shapes in horology and quattro's dedication to uncovering overlooked gems.

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This is my third thread involving or dedicated to the Patek Philippe ref. 5489 'Trapèze', a watch which I've never seen for real yet, but which has somehow gotten under my skin. The two previous threads can be found here:
This time I want to focus on the rose gold model, ref. 5489R-001, because @petitsamourai, on IG, has allowed me to use his very beautiful photos.

And I would like to show some family resemblance with two other trapezoid watches: the LeCoultre ref. 2406 (or Jaeger-LeCoultre ref. 390) and an unreferenced model from Wittnauer.

Enjoy!


A/ PATEK PHILIPPE REF. 5489R-001 (photos credit: @petitsamourai)

1/ With olive green calf strap
















2/ With black alligator strap















credit: @petitsamourai


B/ LECOULTRE REF. 2406 & JAEGER-LECOULTRE REF. 390

1/ LeCoultre ref. 2406


credit: @fldx_clavi



credit: @petitsamourai with LeCoultre courtesy of @fldx_clavi





credit: @blommanwatchreport













credit: tortoise watches









credit: collectors watch company 


2/ Jaeger-LeCoultre ref. 390










Jaeger-LeCoultre 1963 European catalogue


credit: blommanwatchesreport 


Ad from 1961 showing that LeCoultre was 'a division of Longines-Wittnauer' in the US (if you want more information about this, please check this page from The Blomman Watch Report)



credit: blommanwatchreport   


C/ WITTNAUER UNREFERENCED TRAPEZOID MODEL











credit: Mission Gallery Antiques San Diego (on Ebay)







credit: BoteekUneek on Etsy

About the Patek Philippe Ref. 2406

The Patek Philippe Reference 2406 is a vintage dress watch, recognized for its distinctive case shape that deviates from the more common round or rectangular designs of its era. This reference is part of a lineage of Patek Philippe timepieces that explore geometric forms, offering a unique aesthetic that sets it apart from the brand's more conventional offerings. It represents a period of design experimentation within the manufacture, appealing to collectors who appreciate less common and more sculptural case constructions.

Crafted in precious metals, the Reference 2406 typically features a case that presents a refined profile suitable for formal wear. The watch houses a manual-winding movement, a characteristic of many Patek Philippe watches from its production period, emphasizing traditional horological craftsmanship. The crystal protecting the dial is generally acrylic or mineral glass, consistent with vintage watchmaking practices, and the dial often features minimalist hour markers and hands.

This reference holds appeal for collectors interested in Patek Philippe's historical design diversity and those seeking pieces with a unique visual identity. Its relative rarity compared to other Patek Philippe models contributes to its desirability among enthusiasts who focus on specific design periods or unusual case forms. The 2406 fits into the broader context of Patek Philippe's production as an example of the brand's capacity for varied design expressions beyond its most widely recognized models.

Specifications

Caliber
10'''
Case
Yellow Gold
Diameter
22 x 34 mm
Dial
Silver
Crystal
Acrylic

Key Points from the Discussion

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The Discussion
GL
GLau
Feb 21, 2025

intriguing piece to me given its very unusual shape ! The dial layout is also interesting. Different straps really change its looks. Thanks for highlighting this reference and well done again !

AR
ArmisT
Feb 21, 2025

I really like the shaped movement of the LeCoultre.

BR
bruckner4
Feb 21, 2025

Reminds me that I need more squarish stuff beyond a Reverso. That PP ref. is very cool.

DE
Derreck
Feb 21, 2025

You even managed to pique my wifes interest with that watch, which is very very and I mean very rare.

QU
quattro
Feb 21, 2025

Thanks for the kind words.

QU
quattro
Feb 21, 2025

And I agree that the shaped movement is nice!

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