Patek Philippe Ref. 5153G: London vs. Beijing Limited Editions

GLau · 2020-01-29T09:42:15Z

Compare the Patek Philippe Ref. 5153G London and Beijing limited editions. Uncover subtle dial, numeral, and case differences in this collector's challenge.

GLau

WPS member · Patek Philippe forum

40 replies7693 views1 photos

In a delightful challenge to the WatchProSite community, GLau invites readers to closely examine two Patek Philippe Ref. 5153G limited editions: one for the Beijing Maison opening and another for the London Salon. This post, originally shared during the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, offered a welcome distraction, encouraging collectors to spot subtle design differences. GLau's interactive approach not only highlights the unique characteristics of these rare timepieces but also underscores Patek Philippe's tradition of creating distinct regional editions.

40 collectors discussing this on the WatchProSite forumJoin the Conversation →

differences between the Beijing Maison opening limited edition of 25 pieces vs the London limited edition of 80 pieces and identify them.

In a few days I will make another post to show you the differences I found.

Good luck and have fun !

BTW, which one do you prefer and why ?

Here is a link to my original post on the opening ceremony of the Beijing Maison. www.watchprosite.com

5153G London on the left and 5153 Beijing on the right

About the Patek Philippe Calatrava Ref. 5153

The Patek Philippe Calatrava reference 5153 represents a 38mm manual wind iteration within the Calatrava collection. Distinguished by its white gold construction and black dial configuration, this reference was produced from 2005 to 2012, offering collectors a substantial case size within the dress watch category.

The 38mm case is crafted from 18k white gold and features a smooth bezel with sapphire crystal protection. The manual wind caliber 215 PS movement provides 44 hours of power reserve, while water resistance extends to 30 meters. The black dial is complemented by a leather strap, maintaining the classical proportions expected from this configuration.

This reference appeals to collectors seeking a larger Calatrava format in precious metal, with the 38mm case size providing contemporary wrist presence. The manual wind movement and seven-year production span positions the 5153 as a substantial dress watch option within the white gold Calatrava offerings from this period.

Specifications

Caliber: 215 PS

Case: 18k White Gold

Diameter: 38 mm

Dial: Black

Water Resist.: 30m

Crystal: Sapphire

Key Points from the Discussion

The Beijing edition features smaller, thicker Breguet numerals and a more defined overall aesthetic, with a smaller bezel and lugs, and a darker center dot on the dial.
One key difference noted is the application of numerals: the London edition appears to have applied numerals, while the Beijing version's numerals seem to be stamped directly onto the dial.
Several contributors identified variations in the 'Swiss Made' placement, the thickness of the minute track, and the size and border of the date window between the two references.
The hands also show distinctions, with differences in their tips, overall thickness, and the diameter where they attach to the movement, along with variations in the Patek Philippe logo's thickness.
A critical observation was the need for consistent photo scaling to accurately compare elements like bezel and lug size, as apparent differences could be due to image resolution rather than actual watch dimensions.
Some collectors expressed a preference for the Beijing edition, finding its details more defined, while others felt both watches lacked warmth and appeared 'unfinished' due to the plain white dial and prominent Breguet numerals.

The Discussion

Thomas_3

Jan 29, 2020

I am no PP expert but I spot 5 differences. [nt]

GLau

Jan 29, 2020

you are pretty good ! Please...

identify them.

Thomas_3

Jan 29, 2020

Differences I see

Screwed strap pins, numeral font, minute track, Swiss marking at 6 and the date window.

COUNT DE MONET

Jan 29, 2020

I have spoted eigjht [nt]

GLau

Jan 29, 2020

please...

name them !

COUNT DE MONET

Jan 29, 2020

I only refer to the one on the right when comparing it to the other

1. Bezel is thinner 2. Luggs are thinner 3. Time track is printed thicker 4. Breguet 4 had got a cross tail 5. Swiss made within the minute Track 6. Patek Phillips writing is smaller but thicker 7. Hands are thinner 8. Date display smaller 9. Not rhodium plated?