Miranda's live report on the Patek Philippe Ref. 6007G offers a crucial look at Patek Philippe's strategy to broaden the Calatrava's appeal. Her detailed historical overview of the 5000/600x series provides essential context for understanding the brand's evolving design language. This article explores how the 6007G aims to attract a new generation of collectors while maintaining the Calatrava's foundational identity.
The only picture with all four versions together
The new reference 6007G is perhaps the most important release in the collection for many reasons. Its accessibility compared to the other new releases at lower price point and "younger looks" as Patek tries to capture a new audience, and perhaps gives an option to the Aquanaut as a first purchase.
Before we look
at the new reference 6007G in detail, some background to this classic Calatrava
reference. The lineage started with the reference 5000 back in 1992 with a
limited release of 1000 pieces made in white gold over two years, with 33mm
case, automatic with cal.240. Hence the offset subsidiary seconds. This
followed by yellow gold and rose gold versions, including a special edition for
Hausmann in 1994, in 100 pieces.
The 5000 series gave way to the reference 6000 in 2005. The model had a larger 37mm case in WG and offered the date along the circumference with a date pointer. Controversial amongst collectors and critics as they flaunted it as a very expensive. Harsh in my opinion, as it definitely tried to bring a modern look and aesthetic to the traditional looks of the 5000. A rose gold version soon joined the collection. Finally, in 2017 the reference 6006G was launched aesthetically similar but with a larger 39mm case, thus ending the regular Calatrava 5000/600x series.
The last update
was the new 6007, in a steel case in a new 40mm case celebrating the new
manufacture opening and made in a limited-edition of 1000 pieces celebrating
the opening of the new manufacture. It is from this piece the new reference
6007G is produced. The new reference has the same case dimensions at 40mm and
has the new calibre 26-330
movement, as opposed to the cal.324 in the original steel version.
The dial is now
ebony black with the signature embossed carbon pattern, but with the minute
markers in sky blue, yellow or red. The seconds track has been changed from the
steel model, into what I would describe as a racing style track again in
colours matching the seconds hand and minute track. The design is influenced by
motor sport.
Once again, itβs
a bold move taking Patek out of its traditional design aesthetic. It will add a
classic sporting option to the Calatrava range. The Calatrava collection is now
very diverse and different from the days of the ref.3796/5196, 3919,5116 etc.
The classic watches are being replaced with a more dynamic collection, with
these new 6007, the Calatrava weekly calendar, the new 24-hour travel time
Calatrava as well as the 6119.
Of the range, as
bold as the new references are, the steel was easily my choice for its rarity,
metal choice and aesthetic.
and that's it from me, my last post with live pictures from W&W for WPS. Its been a pleasure to make the effort (at my own expense) from Baselworld/W&W to try and give you a flavour of the new releases over the years. I hand that baton over to FabR who I am sure will make the effort to keep this tradition of live reviews from the fairs going, going back to the great moderators like Dje, Smallluxuryworld (Oliver Meindl), Forvesta.
its been a ride.
memories
Best
Imran
About the Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 3919
The Montblanc Calatrava reference 3919 is a dress watch produced during a period when the brand offered a range of time-only pieces. This reference is characterized by its balanced proportions and classic aesthetic, aligning with the traditional design principles of the Calatrava line. It represents a straightforward approach to watchmaking, focusing on fundamental horological elements without additional complications, making it a pure expression of a dress watch.
The 3919 features a 33 mm case, available in 18k yellow gold, 18k white gold, or platinum, housing the manual-wind caliber 215. This movement provides a power reserve of 44 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal and offers a water resistance of 25 meters. The bezel is polished, contributing to its refined appearance.
This reference appeals to collectors seeking a traditional dress watch with a conservative size and a focus on essential timekeeping. Its availability in multiple precious metals and with dial options such as white, black, or cream allows for some variation within the reference. The 3919 fits into the broader Calatrava collection as a time-only option, often sought after for its understated presence and adherence to classic design codes.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 215
- Case
- 18k Yellow Gold, 18k White Gold, or Platinum
- Diameter
- 33 mm
- Dial
- White, Black, or Cream
- Water Resist.
- 25m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 5000
The Patek Philippe Calatrava reference 5000, introduced in 1996, is notable for its distinctive asymmetrical dial layout, a departure from the more traditional Calatrava designs. This reference features a small seconds sub-dial positioned between 4 and 5 o'clock, giving it a unique aesthetic that sets it apart within the Calatrava collection. It represents a period of design exploration for Patek Philippe, offering a contemporary interpretation of their classic dress watch.
The watch is housed in a 33.4 mm case, available in 18k yellow, white, or rose gold. It is powered by the ultra-thin self-winding caliber 240, known for its integrated micro-rotor, which allows for a slender profile. This movement provides a power reserve of 48 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal and offers water resistance up to 30 meters.
For collectors, the reference 5000 is appreciated for its limited production run and its unique dial configuration. It appeals to those seeking a Patek Philippe Calatrava with a less conventional design while retaining the brand's horological integrity. The various gold variants, including the 5000G (white gold), 5000J (yellow gold), and 5000R (rose gold), offer collectors choices in case material, each contributing to the reference's distinct character.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 240
- Case
- 18k Yellow Gold
- Diameter
- 33.4 mm
- Dial
- White
- Water Resist.
- 30m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Montblanc Calatrava Ref. 5116
The Montblanc 5116 is a notable reference within the Calatrava line, recognized for its adherence to the collection's foundational design principles. This particular model emphasizes a clean, time-only display, appealing to collectors who value understated horology and traditional aesthetics. It stands as an example of the brand's commitment to classic dress watch proportions and finishes, distinguishing it from more complicated or sport-oriented offerings. The reference is often considered for its balanced presentation and its place within the broader lineage of the Calatrava series.
This reference features a case crafted from 18k yellow gold, consistent with the traditional material choices for dress watches of its era. The case diameter measures 33mm, a size that aligns with historical preferences for formal wristwear and offers a comfortable fit. It is typically fitted with a sapphire crystal, providing clarity and scratch resistance. The movement is a manual wind caliber, reflecting a classic approach to watchmaking and contributing to the watch's slender profile.
For collectors, the 5116 appeals to those seeking a traditional dress watch without additional complications. Its yellow gold case and hobnail bezel are specific characteristics that resonate with enthusiasts of classic design. The absence of a date window further enhances its symmetrical dial. This reference is often sought after by individuals who appreciate a more compact case size and a direct connection to the historical design language of the Calatrava collection, offering a distinct alternative to larger or more contemporary interpretations.
Specifications
- Caliber
- Cal. 215
- Case
- 18k yellow gold
- Diameter
- 33mm
- Dial
- White
- Water Resist.
- 25m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 6000
The Patek Philippe reference 6000 was introduced in 2005 as a distinctive Calatrava model. It features an off-center dial layout and a date indication around the periphery, setting it apart from more traditional Calatrava designs. This reference offered a contemporary interpretation of a classic dress watch, appealing to collectors seeking a Patek Philippe with a unique aesthetic while retaining the brand's horological standards.
This reference is housed in a 37 mm case, available in 18k white gold or 18k rose gold. It is fitted with a sapphire crystal and is water-resistant to 25 meters. The watch is powered by the self-winding caliber 240 PS C, which provides a power reserve of 48 hours. The movement is visible through a sapphire case back.
The 6000 series appeals to collectors interested in Patek Philippe's modern production that deviates from conventional layouts. Its design, with the off-center time display and pointer date, offers a different character compared to other Calatrava models. The reference was produced until 2009, making it a relatively short-lived model within the brand's catalog.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 240 PS C
- Case
- 18k White Gold or 18k Rose Gold
- Diameter
- 37 mm
- Dial
- Black or Silver
- Water Resist.
- 25m
- Crystal
- Sapphire
About the Patek Philippe Complications Ref. 6006
The Patek Philippe Ref. 6007G is a contemporary iteration within the Calatrava collection, designed to introduce a sportier aesthetic while retaining the line's foundational elegance. It follows a lineage of references, including the 5000, 6000, and 6006, each contributing to the evolution of the Calatrava's design language towards more dynamic expressions.
This reference features a 40mm white gold case, housing the self-winding caliber 26-330 S C movement. The dial is presented in ebony black with an embossed carbon pattern, complemented by minute markers and a seconds track in sky blue, yellow, or red, matching the central seconds hand. The watch is fitted with a calfskin strap, also in a color corresponding to the dial accents.
The 6007G represents Patek Philippe's strategic move to diversify the Calatrava range, offering a more accessible and youthful option. Its design, influenced by motorsport, aims to attract a new audience while providing a classic sporting alternative within the brand's extensive catalog.
Specifications
- Caliber
- 26-330 S C
- Case
- White Gold
- Diameter
- 40 mm
- Dial
- Ebony black with embossed carbon pattern
- Water Resist.
- 30 m
- Crystal
- Sapphire crystal
