ImranLondon
[PuristSPro Moderator]
6312
An Officer and a Calatrava.
When we think of the diversity of Patek cases, there are two which are stand out, for me. The classic Calatrava and the Officer. They both are steeped in history, and yet look as fresh today as they did nearly 100 years ago. The officer, is now a legendary case. Indeed the anniversary of Patek in 1989, was celebrated with a beautiful enamel dial ref 3960 with officer case and hinged back. The hinged back is rare even today and takes its origins from the famous hunter and half hunter pocket watches.
The famous 3960 case was used again in the mini moonphase complication the ref.5019. It also was used in a delightful minute repeater for the 1997 celebration of the new Patek manufacture in Plan les Outes. This minute repeater is the also the basis of this year new grand complication, as revealed already by Oliver.
The Officer case evolved and new models have come and gone with the famous round case
This year we see an evolution. An addition of the Officer into the ladies collection. The result is a fantastic symbiosis of haute horologerie and joaillerie: the new classic ladies Officer in rose gold and a unique moonphase complication again rose gold. These are two pieces that pictures do not do justice. Irony, the size would have been acceptable as a mans watch in 1989. Indeed the simple watch with breguet numbers on a rich brown or black strap could easily adorn a mans wrist.
Then we have the men's new Calatrava, the ref 5227. What can I say that already has not been said. It is for me, one of the most perfect Patek ever crafted. The design is perfect, I can not change an item. It follows also from the Officer case....what we have is a calatrava with a hinged back. Truely superb, you have to go and see the case back mechanism. You can not appreciate the design till you see it in your own hands. Even if you do not wish to buy one, just have a look. I truely hope, we will see more watches with this unique case back.
Te ref 5227 in RG and YG:
I love the design of the lugs, taking inspiration from the 5205.
And finally, talking of the 5205, we see a new presentation in RG. We already saw this exceptional case in WG. I think it is fair to say that,most Patek followers love this case, wether they own it or not. This year we see a more softer, warmer perhaps we can say sensuous version in rose. I would love to see that hinged case back on this case in platinum with a black dial... 
Pic credits: Antiquorum, Christies and Patek Philippe SA.
Best
Imran
An Officer and a Calatrava.
