Patek Philippe

Vintage Patek references up until the 3970/3940 boasted a very rich enamel moonphase with handcrafted accompanying gold stars and moon disc. For reference, slide 2 of this post shows a 2499 moonphase and slide 1 is of a 3970 moonphase. The enamel moonphas...  

“over the moon” 🌝! Had no idea that there is such mystery behind this function. Do you have any comments on the 5575 moon vs the 6002’s ? Also, please share more information about your commissioned 5004.

I let the 5575 and 6102 out as they are quite special moonphase designs that deserve a more in-depth exploration. Essentially the 5575 and 5102/6102 are quite isolated cases. The 5575 is a very special moonphase with its photorealistic depiction but it do... 

They look the same to me

If I had to give ONE reason why I love Patek, it is their unique attention to details....The level of sophistication they have reached in representing the moonphase on these references, and how it evolved over time, is simply breathtaking! If someone wond... 

It was quite a gruelling affair writing this post as there were so many transitional references. So many exceptions to the rule. But I’m glad you found this a helpful article on the topic. Despite the difficulties, I really enjoyed this project

...but the 2499j first series really stands out for me because of the orientation of the date numerals. I wish they did that on all of their calendar watches. Plus, it looks like the stars were hand-painted...very beautiful.

They really really pop against the dial. Truly something special. I would love for them to make a return. At least on the special moonphase watches. Nice to see enamel did grace the 6002 moon!

full of information and impressive pictures. One question to the first picture (2499j 4th series Tiffany): are there some scratches on the stars or is this just due the light? All the best Thomas

To my eyes moon phase is a very beautiful and poetic complication (maybe not the most useful but the nicest imho). And since I agree with you PP makes the most beautiful moon phase obviously I tried to capture their beauty... I'll start with my Wonder Wat...  

You really do have superb taste. That 3448 especially is really something! Thank you also for the pictures!

I must admit that I consider myself lucky to own them, that 3448 that I call my Wonder Watch is my pride, but it us just nothing compared with your jaw dropping collection. Your collection of 2499 is totally absolutely stunning incredibly amazing 😳

This is why I love the Purists always something interesting you never would of thought about pops up.

This information is SO interesting. The early moon phase watches with the blue enamel are fantastic. Thank you for posting this!

The way it pops against the dial is the stuff of dreams

Regrettably all my PP references belong to post 3970 era, hence the gold evaporated moon/ stars by photographic mean, and less poetic…

I mean of course enamel is truly something, but a nice frosted moon or a polished one with stars with black borders? They’re cool buddy. I would love to see a return to enamel for high end pieces like in the 6002

From my 5146J: 5140G: ...  

it is the most appealing and romantic of the complications. I imagine only a tiny percentage of watch enthusiasts follow and use the moonphase function for a practical purpose in their every day lives. Yet, it adds true artistry (especially the enameled v...  

2) secondly, yep, what a fantastic watch 3) thirdly, thank you my friend for the super kind words. Really means a lot to me!!

If I you don’t’ mind my suggesting, I have an idea for a topic. Most collectors fall into the vintage OR modern/current categories. You have a cross section of the best of vintage (eg 2499), modern (eg 5970) and current (eg 5270). It would be interesting ... 

is lovely, understated and super elegant ! 👍

It does look very understated. Some might say a bit plain. In person however it is a different story. So far I have not been able to fully capture its beauty in a photo. I guess it is much better to look great in person than only look great in a photo. Be... 

My poor attempt: ...  

and photographic charm.

Yet your pics are quite nice my friend

Your 3448 must be a 4th series I assume (after 1978 am I correct ?) I fully agree on all what you say about the moon phase complication: most people even do not bother to set it but just want to see this romantic complication on their wrist. I'll add some... 

The enamel moon phase is just incredible, small date ring and pearl minute divisions from the early versions, and the special PP crown only found on the earliest ones… ...  

I like the engraved 6002g. Just insane.

...someday when I get the energy I hope to do a similar post about typography. For the record, I love the way the numbers are oriented in the photo ' 2499j 1st series'

It on your IG already, right ?

It’s interesting to see how the MP disc has evolved over time Recently i chanced up on 5970G with frosted MP, I always thought since they were earlier in the production they were all in mirror finish.. ...  

Thank you so much for posting, I have had an enjoyable read!

This thread is like a moment of zen after all the recent uh turbulence

Thanks for this incredible overview of special special watches

Wow 🤯…this is an amazing write-up and concise thread on this amazing series. The 4th series 2499 w/Tiffany Stamp is also the same reference that Yoko Ono purchased for John Lennon. I’m sure there are very few examples of this. When John Lennon’s 2499 fina... 

Also interesting to read all the knowledgeable comments you triggered with your super post. Many many Thanks. Pelle

Great post and pics. It is my understanding that the original champleve enamel technique was used into, but not past the 1950's. These discs featured the stars and moon in relief as they were under the champleve enamel layer and consisted of the polished ...