Description

The present reference 5738/50G-016 is part of the out-of-catalog ‘Rare Handcrafts’ collection from Patek. Nicknamed « Spirit of the Seventies », this timepiece is an ode to the 1970s.

A trained eye will instantly recognize the Golden Ellipse case design which was introduced in 1968. The use of geometrical motifs, visually striking dials and bold colors is also typical of the 1970s watch design codes. With this gorgeous timepiece, Patek Philippe honored all of these characteristics.

Over the years, Patek Philippe has promoted and mastered the intricate art of rare handicrafts, including enameling, which is abundantly evident in this timepiece. This stunning beauty features a Grand Feu cloisonné green enamel dial. The skilled enameler used 24K yellow-gold wire measuring 0.1 x 0.45 mm in cross-section, which he meticulously shaped and attached to the gold base plate to create the desired play of straight lines and curves, highlighting the “cloisonné” sections. To evoke the audacity and freedom of the seventies, he applied 4 opaque enamel colors, with each dial requiring 12 to 16 firings at temperatures ranging from 810°C to 820°C. The white-gold elliptical case houses the ultra-thin caliber 240 movement, and the hours and minutes are displayed with white-gold cheveu-style hands.

This rare piece of art is offered on a shiny green hand-stitched alligator strap with an 18K white gold prong buckle.

Patek Philippe – Bio

Patek Philippe & Co. was founded in 1839, located in Geneva and the Vallée de Joux. It designs and manufactures timepieces and movements, including some of the most complicated mechanical watches. It is considered by many experts and aficionados to be one of the most prestigious watch manufacturers.
In 1868, Patek Philippe made their first wristwatch, which was sold on November 13, 1876 to the Hungarian Countess.
It is the last independent, family-owned Genevan watch manufacture with uninterrupted operating history spanning nearly 180 years.