Patek Philippe 5960 Platinum vs. Gold Weight

dr.kol · 2017-02-23T03:46:16Z

Explore Patek Philippe 5960 weight differences in platinum, gold, and steel. Dr.kol analyzes material densities, costs, and collector value. Essential insights for luxury watch enthusiasts.

dr.kol

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

67 replies25739 views6 photos

Dr.kol presents a detailed analysis of the weight differences between Patek Philippe Ref. 5960 models in various precious metals, prompted by a discussion with moderator Mark. This post offers a quantitative comparison of platinum, white gold, yellow gold, and rose gold, including their densities and material costs. It provides valuable insights for collectors considering the tactile and financial aspects of different metal choices.

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Moderator Mark is thinking about 5960 and the weight of the watch.

Let's have a closer look.

Here is 5960A with WG clasp and a bespoke strap.

And the same in platinum; clasp made of platinum and same length of strap.

Platinum is heavier like we all know. But what about platinum vs. gold?

Yellow gold

White gold

And rose gold

Let's have a closer look at the densities of different metals:

- Platinum 21.4 (21.4 g per cubic cm)

- Gold 19.3

- Stainless steel 7.9

However, the platinum used for watches is 95% platinum while gold is just 75% gold. The three different golds have a bit different density because of those 25% of different metals. White gold with palladium is a bit heavier than either yellow or rose gold.

The density of 950 platinum is about 20.34 while 750 gold is in average 15.3. This means that the density of platinum used in watches is about 36% higher than the one of gold. At the same time the density of gold is some 94% higher than the one of steel.

Now comes the interesting part.

Yesterday platinum was 30.91 EUR / g while gold was 38.24 EUR / g. If we forget the value of other metals in the mixture, 950 platinum was € 29.36 per gram and 750 gold € 28.68 per gram. The case of 5960 requires about 60 grams of platinum and 38.4 grams of gold. In other words the raw materials cost of a platinum watch are some € 660 higher than the same of a gold watch...

To Mark: A 5960G would be just some 20-25 grams lighter than the platinum brother. The difference is not really remarkable.

Best, Kari

About the Patek Philippe Ref. 5960

The Patek Philippe Complications reference 5960A, introduced in stainless steel, represents a significant offering within the brand's annual calendar chronograph series. This particular reference is notable for being the first annual calendar chronograph from Patek Philippe to be offered in a non-precious metal, making it a distinctive piece in the Complications collection. It combines practical complications with a robust case material, appealing to collectors seeking a blend of utility and horological complexity.

This reference features a 40.5mm stainless steel case, housing the self-winding Caliber CH 28-520 QA 24H. The movement provides a power reserve of approximately 55 hours and is visible through a sapphire crystal case back. The dial is presented in white, protected by a sapphire crystal, and the watch is water-resistant to 30 meters. The integrated stainless steel bracelet complements the case material, providing a cohesive aesthetic.

The 5960A in stainless steel holds a specific position for collectors due to its material choice and the integrated bracelet, differentiating it from its precious metal counterparts. Its combination of an annual calendar and chronograph functions, along with the 24-hour indication, makes it a highly functional and mechanically interesting timepiece. The special hand set and case back decoration mentioned for this specific 5960A further emphasize its unique attributes within the production run.

Specifications

Caliber: Cal.CH 28-520 QA 24H

Case: stainless steel

Diameter: 40.5mm

Dial: white

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The value of luxury watches, especially those in platinum, is not solely based on intrinsic material cost or craftsmanship, but significantly influenced by brand image, philosophy, and the rarity that drives collector desire.
The market's acceptance and willingness to pay higher prices for rare materials like platinum have driven brands to increase prices, suggesting that clients bear some responsibility for current market valuations.
The scarcity of certain models, like the Patek Philippe Nautilus, is perceived by some as a deliberate strategy to create desire and maintain exclusivity, rather than a natural market phenomenon.
The current high prices in the watch industry are viewed by some as a bubble, unsustainable in the long run, especially given that many manufacturing processes are not inherently high-tech and could be replicated by other manufacturers.
The limited production of models like the Patek Philippe 5711 and 5712 is seen as a strategic decision by Patek Philippe to prevent steel watches and the Nautilus line from dominating their overall sales and production volume, rather than an attempt to inflate prices.
For collectors with thin wrists, a difference of 20-25 grams between a platinum and a gold watch can be a significant factor in comfort, making the Patek Philippe 5960G a more appealing option than its platinum counterpart.
The density of gold alloys varies based on the metals used in the mixture; high-quality white gold with palladium is typically heavier than yellow or rose gold, while white gold with zinc can be lighter.
When comparing the Patek Philippe 5960 in different metals, the steel 5960/1A offers significant value, costing substantially less than pre-owned platinum versions, highlighting the premium paid for precious metals.

The Discussion

christianch

Feb 23, 2017

very interesting Kari..always wondered about weight differences

and there is very few resources online about it. Well done! Christian

dr.kol

Feb 23, 2017

Thanks.

And as you can see, pure platinum has a density of 21.4 while pure gold has a density of 19.3. In reality gold has a density just 10% lower than platinum. Best, Kari

Alkiro1

Feb 23, 2017

Dear Christian

In my opinion, a periodic table of elements is very helpful for that kind of topic. You can easily find one on google. Best wishes Alkiro

Ares501 - Mr Green

Feb 23, 2017

Nicely put Kari

Looking at your calculus one wonders where all this zeros in total price of Pt watch comes from yes I know the movement, dial, hands, craftmanship...finish...working with platinum... heft of brand name ...historical value etc...but still....one wonders Cheers D

dr.kol

Feb 23, 2017

You wonder correctly.

Just think about the price difference between 5960/1A and 5960P. No wonder the most expensive manufacturers don't like to make steel watches. Best, Kari

Mario

Feb 23, 2017

Kari, I love how you find all these interesting ways to have fun with your watch collection and keep us entertained. [nt]