Patek Philippe

On my third visit to try on this gem of a watch, I finally remembered to have a wrist shot taken.  Although measuring only 31mm, my fellow purist buddy, John who knows me like an open book and who has seen it on my wrist has told me that the watch has my name on it and that it would suit me down to the ground. I love this watch more than any other that I do not currently own and hopefully when the watch becomes affordable for me in August this year, it will still be available.  Unlike most other skeleton watches, the side of the case has been hand engraved making it quite exquisite. The watch is a discontinued 3878J produced in the 80s and 90s so quite rare and possibly less popular due to its size and the fact that it is a skeleton watch. But this is my slight advantage - I tend to opt for smaller watches that many would deem unpopular like the Patek 5099 cabriolet (see below) which was only produced for less than 3 years with a total production number of fewer than 350 allegedly. That makes it more rare than many Patek limited edition models but yet the price is a relative bargain.



Made for me?!




Not for everyone but I like it too!

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This watch will not appeal to everyone but its artistry is a sight to behold in my opinion.

One of the best examples of craftsmanship and real hand engraving.
That is something that can't be done by machineries

I think I will ask the great Alkiro to take some close up shots when I meet him with the watch

I think you remind us all how we each strive for that one piece that sings to our hearts. You are fortunate to have found this and I’ve no doubt you will soon be gracing us with more photos of your grail. Best of luck!

I am indeed most fortunate to come across this piece. Considering it was discontinued almost 20 years ago and then to have an esteemed collector commission the last available movement and then to decide to cancel it makes me feel that perhaps it is fate after all

If it’s not visible on your shot, you’re right about the sides of this timepiece which are amazing too.

But I think my favourite engraved element is the micro rotor both front and back. I’m quite sure that’s truly mesmerising when it moves.

I sincerely hope you’ll get it in August my friend 😉

Best wishes

Alkiro

I hope you don't mind the next time we meet that I ask you to take some close up shots because for me, you are one of the best among us
Great to know that you like the 5099. It is a remarkable under rated watch with a complex and well thought of case!

Regarding the 5099, I have to confess that I love watches with a “twist” element like this one. It’s super cool.

Best wishes

Alkiro

and I totally agree with you. Instead of the more common Reverso and Tank Basculante, it is nice to see a different take to protecting a watch face. I believe the original idea came about in 1928 or 1929, a couple of years earlier than the launch of the original Reverso and Tank Basculante.

Best wishes

Alkiro

A little hidden treasure it certainly is

Best wishes

Alkiro

Not many watches can boast that characteristic!

Best wishes

Alkiro

is that the watch with the vertical 'shutters'? I had tried that many years ago but unfortunately it did not fit my wrist so well being rectangular and quite a bit larger than the 5099. Clever idea nevertheless.

Of course, if you already tried it and you didn’t feel comfortable with it, the Patek was another seducing option 😉

Best wishes

Alkiro

seem to be liking the same watches lately!
Or maybe he just happens to be buying everything!!

Best wishes

Alkiro

he has excellent tastes

Best wishes

Alkiro

you don't sleep much, do you?!
Have a pleasant weekend!!

Best wishes

Alkiro

Or you are that Japanese superhero 'Alkiro' afterall!!

Well, you’re right. It’s time to sleep now for me.

See you in 3 hours my friend 😁

Best wishes

Alkiro

You should have been a doctor my friend. I hope I don't wake up for at least another 7 hours!!!

Best wishes

Alkiro

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Best wishes

Alkiro