1999 Patek Philippe 'Gondolo big twelve' Yellow gold - Ref. 5014
A large and very elegant yellow gold Patek Philippe 'Tank'
WHY IS THIS WATCH SPECIAL
This particulat model was manufactured from 1993 to 2005, the dial of this model is inspired by the 1920s style with it's stunning 'Big twelve', while the dimension and case design, with clean lines and steps, is very classical in the spirit of the Cartier 'Tank' model, this creates an intriguing juxtaposition of styles for the joy of the refined collector. The present example is in mint condition and comes with it's travel Patek Philippe pouch and service labels.
THE STORY
1839: Antoine Patek, a Polish businessman, and François Czapek, a Czech watchmaker, established Patek, Czapek & Cie in Geneva.
1851: Jean-Adrien Philippe became a partner in the company he had joined in 1844. Following the departure of François Czapek, it was renamed Patek Philippe & Cie.
1932: Dialmakers Charles and Jean Stern bought the company, which became Patek Philippe SA. It still belongs to the Stern family.
Patek Philippe belongs to the very small circle of historical Fine Watch brands. Established in 1839, since 1932 it has been in the hands of the Stern family. From its earliest days, Patek Philippe showed a remarkable capacity for innovation and excelled in the artisanship required to create a beautiful watch. This dual expertise was backed by sharp business acumen. Patek Philippe quickly became a favourite among a wealthy international clientele who commissioned bespoke watches from the Manufacture. One of these discerning patrons, the American financier Henry Graves, took delivery in 1934 of a pocket watch with 24 complications, a record for that era.
Placing quality uppermost, for many years Patek Philippe had its watches certified by the Poinçon de Genève. In 2009 it instead created its own standard of quality, the Patek Philippe Seal, which applies to every stage from the manufacturing to the sale of the watch. Since the mid-2000s, Patek Philippe has dominated the auction market. The Patek Philippe Museum in Geneva holds one of the richest private collections of timepieces in the world.
Based in Geneva but with production sites spread throughout the Arc Jurassien, Patek Philippe is renowned for its command of complications, in particular striking watches. While perpetuating traditional watchmaking skills, it also embraces new technologies, such as silicon. Accordingly, in 2011 Patek Philippe endowed a research chair in micro- and nanotechnologies at the Ecole Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne.
THE DATA
- Maker: Patek Philippe
- Model: Gondolo 'Big twelve' Art déco tank
- Reference: 5014
- Case N°: 40428XX
- Year: 1999
- Material: Solid 18k Yellow Gold
- Dimentions (WxHxT): 28x35x7mm
- Caliber: 215
- Bracelet/Strap: Patek Philippe Black aligator & Original solid 18K pinbuckle
- Lug width: 21mm
- Box/Papers: Patek Philippe pouch + Service labels
THE IMPORTANT DETAILS
We particularly appreciate the classical and elegant design of this flawless wristwatch. The yellow gold 'Tank' large case gives an unbeatable exclusive touch. This watch can be worn everyday and for more formal occasions.
The white glossy dial of this reference has a stunning and very readable layout. The case, crystal and buckle doesn't show any scratches. The crown is stamped with the Patek Calatrava Cross.
This timepiece is signed Patek Philippe on the dial, case, movement and on the 18k solid gold pin buckle.
The watch comes with its Patek Philippe travel pouch and service labels.
