Patek Philippe

Park
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AP vs. PP

Happy Wis,

We find ourselves in reciprocal positions.  I have limited my purchases almost exclusively to AP in recent years (well, one VC got in there), but haven't been pulled the trigger on a PP yet.  Here's an outline of why, without all the nuance:

1. Integrated bracelets:  For reasons I can't fully explain, the aesthetics and comfort of an integrated bracelet are much more appealing to me than a strap.  Hence, my favorite designs are AP RO, AP ROO, VC Overseas, Bvlgari Diagano, and maybe the new Nautilus series.

2. Size:  Experimentation leads me to conclude that 40-42 mm is the size that works for me with an integrated bracelet, but that 37-41 mm is the rang with a strap.

3. Functionality:  I require a 12-hour chrono at all times, for keeping billing records of services to clients at any hour.  As far as I can tell PP did not supply this function until 5960P, which I ordered the day of first news leak (and am still awaiting).

4. Design: I love the octagon, the angulariy, the straight lines, the modern and industrial design aspects, and the more brushed than polished finish of the RO and ROO series, while Pateks other than the Nautilus have what to me seem too many arbitrary curves and  rounded , polished surfaces. 

5. Attitude, associations, image, advertising, hype, etc.:  AP's appealing aspects (to me) include audacity, urbanity, and freshness; PP's unappealing aspects (to me) include old-fashioned styling and visible traditionalism.  These are true even in the catalogs, packaging, and boutique furnishings.

Some models of each brand have reached price points that should discourage the rational buyer.

My choices among APs have narrowed to those with white metals; no colors other than white, black, grey, and blue; and no associations to sports or other fleeting events.  My favorite PPs are 5960P, 5980, and, should I ever be able to go without a 12-hour chrono, 5070P and 5196G.  I'd like the 5960P and 5980 even better and would have bought them by now if the minute totalizer were one hour per rotation eliminating the need for red markings and if they were available to me at MSRP.

Park