Patek Philippe Gondolo 5124G-011 Review
Review

Patek Philippe Gondolo 5124G-011 Review

By christianch · Mar 26, 2016 · 24 replies
christianch
WPS member · Patek Philippe forum
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Christianch shares his initial impressions and stunning photography of the Patek Philippe Gondolo 5124G-011, a timepiece that captivated him with its Art Deco case and unique navy blue sunray dial. This review highlights the watch's distinct aesthetic and the thoughtful inclusion of a perfectly fitted square movement, a detail often overlooked in rectangular cases. Christianch's personal journey with this reference underscores how a watch can unexpectedly find its way into a collector's heart.

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Today I went to try the Patek Philippe Gondolo 5124G-011 and it was love at first sight !
The watch was launched last year in Basel. I was there but -- at that time -- I didn't pay too much attention to it. Thanks to the review and teasers of other fellow purists I remembered that
I did see this watch a few days ago in display so in a very sunny easter Saturday I visited my local AD to try the watch. As you know my reviews are mostly visual ones so here we go ! wink

Here is my first live view of the watch:





The watch has a unique art-deco case consistent with the Gondolo line. This new model (5124G-011) has a very different look than the previous reference (001). The dial is now
of a fantastic navy blue sunray dial








The movement is Caliber 25-21 REC PS: a square movement that fits perfectly in this watch. I am obviously very happy that patek is using a proper movement for this watch
as I always disliked the shortcut of using a round movement in a square case (widely used by many manufacture even high-end ones) 





The colour will change according to the lighting:




At a more natural light we see a different shade of blue



Here is a side by side comparison with the bigger brother Ref. 5200G-001. This reference was launched in 2014 and features the same dial but a different movement with 8 days
power reserve and day-date function.
It is slightly thicker and taller but also less broader. This specimen was reserved for another client so it seems to be a popular reference:




Finally a photo without the plastic!! Obviously many shops have to insist on keeping the watches wrapped in plastic but is also important to see such a special dial without any alteration
so here it is in all its splendour!!




At this point the watch did indeed take my breath away. Why ? Well first of all I was in love of the case shape: very art deco and very unique. Something really different. In 2012 I considered
the previous model (with salmon dial) as my first Patek but then I decided to go for the 5127G.  I think that the updated dial and strap do make the watch more contemporary and even
more unique. 





It did take my breath away so I had to give it a new home smile Here the great moment of boxing smile









And now home under natural lighting. The blue can indeed appear as a dark navy blue or light one depending on the light:



Love the blue strap and classic patek buckle:



The movement: simple but gorgeous:



The case shape is curved so an added comfort and a very unique style:



And a final one smile 


 I was pleased to see that in 2015 Patek revamped this model of the gondolo line for the joy of lovers of simple watches. The result of this upgrade is fantastic as the unique color and 
overall class of this watch is difficult to convey through photos. A relatively simple update to the dial and strap created a very new and versatile watch.  The bigger brother 5200G is also an
amazing watch but the classic style of the 5124G-011 was even more interesting to me. 

Thanks again for reading and to Mark and Robin for the previous reviews/teasers smile 
Christian 


About the Patek Philippe Gondolo Ref. 5124

The Montblanc Calatrava reference 5124 is a notable example of the brand's dress watch offerings, characterized by its restrained design and classic proportions. This reference was produced during a period when Montblanc was expanding its horological presence, offering timepieces that emphasized traditional watchmaking aesthetics. It represents a more accessible entry point into the brand's mechanical watch collection, appealing to those seeking a refined and understated wristwatch without excessive complications.

Encased in either 18k white gold or 18k rose gold, the 5124 features a case measuring 36 mm in diameter and 46 mm from lug to lug, providing a balanced presence on the wrist. It is powered by the manual-wind caliber 25-21 REC PS, offering a power reserve of 44 hours. The watch is fitted with a sapphire crystal, ensuring clarity and scratch resistance, and has a water resistance rating of 30 meters, suitable for everyday wear.

This reference appeals to collectors who appreciate Montblanc's commitment to classical watch design and mechanical movements. Its availability in different precious metals and dial colors (silver or black) provides options for individual preference, while its lack of complications underscores its identity as a pure time-only dress watch. The 5124 fits within a lineage of watches that prioritize legibility and timeless style.

Specifications

Caliber
25-21 REC PS
Case
18k White Gold or 18k Rose Gold
Diameter
36 mm x 46 mm
Dial
Silver or Black
Water Resist.
30m
Crystal
Sapphire

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The Discussion
CL
Clueless_Collector
Mar 26, 2016

you're buying watches like groceries ) Good for the your local Swiss watch economy. Rgds Raymond

DR
dr.kol
Mar 26, 2016

A very nice reference indeed and rather sensibly priced I am always adding a made-to-measurements strap and a Patek folding clasp. It's taking even the nicest watch one step higher. Best, Kari

CH
christianch
Mar 26, 2016

wallet ! but I had a good year so I can't complain. Hopefully won't fall in love so soon again

CH
christianch
Mar 26, 2016

non complications time-only yet still an increase from the previous reference due to the dial or well just because Glad to hear that you like it and your opinion in the other topic played a role too!! Christian

DR
dr.kol
Mar 26, 2016

and it looks very good on your wrist. Not too small, not too big. And for sure it's slim enough. Best, Kari

GE
geross
Mar 26, 2016

Good addition to your collection. Wear in good health and in good times , always. Cheers Geross.

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