THE PROPER USE OF COLOR
The Plan-les-Ouates based manufacturer once again demonstrates its ability to elegantly stage masterful highly complex timepieces in warm tones.
It was made available in 2016 in a range of versions combining a 40mm-diameter pink gold case with a black or silvered opaline dial. The Perpetual Calendar Split-Seconds Chronograph is being presented this year-end by Patek Philippe in a new variation under the reference 5204R-011. Although the precious metal casing remains in place, it is now combined with a slate gray dial tending towards the color taupe. In this décor, as refined as ever, one finds the calendar display with the day and month windows positioned at 12 o’clock on the same line along with the date indicated by a hand at 6 o’clock. The moon phases are also positioned on this dial. To measure short and long running times, the 30-minute counter located at 3 o’clock is combined with two useful second hands for the split-second function. Completing the array is a small seconds hand at 9 o’clock, a leap year indicator, and another dedicated to distinguishing day from night at 7:30.
The hour and minute hands point to a circle of hour markers, both of which are coated with luminescent material for optimal clarity. These as well as all other data are powered with precision by the CHR 29-535 PS Q caliber that features a 65-hour power reserve. The complex architecture of this hand-wound mechanism, assembled using 496 components, and its sublime finishing can be appreciated through the sapphire backing of the case.
The natural elegance of this timepiece is further enhanced by the inclusion of a calfskin strap with a gray alligator scale pattern, fastened with a folding clasp.
Price: €269,600
By Dan Diaconu