If you’re interested in high-end watches, you’re likely aware that a number of brands recently unveiled their new models during the digital version of Watches and Wonders 2021. Among these was Patek Philippe, which introduced several exciting new models. Read on to learn more about the highlights from this Geneva-based luxury manufacturer.
Patek Philippe Nautilus 5711/1A with Green Dial
Rumors have abounded ever since Patek announced that it would be capping the production of its iconic ref. 5711/1A with a final special edition in steel. After the popular Nautilus with a blue dial was officially discontinued, speculation turned to the dial color of the final edition. Most guessed (correctly) that it would be some shade of green, which seems to be the latest industry trend. And so, here we have the Nautilus 5711/1A with an olive green dial. Apart from that, everything about this watch remains unchanged from the original. Interestingly, this model is not a limited edition, but rather part of the regular line-up – how long it remains is anyone’s guess.
Patek Philippe Calatrava “Clous de Paris” 6119 Hand-Wound
You can’t have a discussion about dress watches without mentioning Patek Philippe’s seminal Calatrava. Introduced in 1932, this collection is the very definition of a legacy. This year, Patek showed us just how impervious to time and trends the Calatrava really is with the unveiling of its new ref. 6119. This isn’t a new reference, but rather an update of the existing ref. 5119 that debuted in 2006 (which itself was preceded by the ref. 3919 in 1985). The defining characteristics of this watch are, of course, its guilloched hobnail bezel and small seconds subdial. The case, available in white or rose gold, is nicely sized at 39 mm and stands just 8.1 mm tall – the ideal dimensions for a dress watch. Inside is the beautifully-finished, hand-wound Caliber 30‑255 PS, which offers a 65-hour power reserve.
Patek Philippe Annual Calendar 4947A
This is possibly one of the most interesting releases from Patek Philippe this year, although its case size will certainly divide opinion. The first thing you need to know is that Patek invented the annual calendar complication in 1996. With very few exceptions, the brand has only ever offered this complication in precious metal cases. The new ref. 4947A, however, has a Calatrava-style steel case that measures 38 mm x 11 mm, a rich blue dial with “shantung” finish, and, of course, an annual calendar with a moonphase display. Both the case and integrated stainless steel five-piece link bracelet are fully polished and very shiny, which may put some people off – as will the smaller case size. On the flip side, however, this is a genuinely interesting and complicated watch from Patek that could be enjoyed by either sex and will undoubtedly be seen as a very welcome addition to the Patek line-up.
Patek Philippe In-line Perpetual Calendar 5236P
Patek Philippe always releases at least one mega watch each year, although these sometimes fly under the radar. This is certainly the case with the new ref. 5236P. At first glance, this model appears unassumingly simple. The dial is clean, easy to read, and very pleasant to look at. And therein lies the mastery of Patek Philippe. Presented in a very reasonably sized 41.3 x 11.07 mm 950 platinum case, this watch marks the first time that all key calendar indications are displayed in a single, uninterrupted line of text. It seems so obvious and intuitive to read, but making this possible requires four, non-overlapping discs and a completely new movement with three patents. The design inspiration comes from vintage Patek Philippe pocket watches, which benefitted from significantly larger cases and dials. The fact that the brand was able to translate this into a wristwatch and keep it wearable and highly legible is a major achievement.
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