Description
Evolution of an emblematic model, the line of Worldtimers also known as “Heure Universelle” exists since over 80 years, extremely coveted by collectors who in recent auctions pay up to 2-3 million $ for a rare vintage piece, that sets the tone very high.
After an absence of over 35 years from the catalogues, the reference 5110 was released in 2000 and was available for 6 years, made in yellow gold 5110J, white gold 5110G and with a blue centre dial in platinum 5110P.
In 2006, the brand released the very popular and elegant 5130 model in a 39.5mm case, 2.5mm bigger than the older sibling, it had a 10 years long lifespan, they produced that version in rose, yellow and white gold, the platinum version with a very elegant ice blue guilloché dial but the highlight; 5130 references were blessed with a few stunning limited editions pieces, to name some; 1) Dubai edition 5130p-014, 2) Mecca edition 5130p-015, 3) Edinburgh edition 5130p-029, 4) Beirut edition 5130r-027 and the very coveted cloisonné enamel dial versions first released in 2009, the desirable references 5131 that saw many long waiting lists for all metals, as 2019 the last 5131/1p full platinum bracelet version with the “North Pole” enamel dial was produced and discontinued.
In 2016 we saw the release of two new World Time references, 5230 (pink and white gold) redesigned with a new case 1mm smaller than its predecessor, new hands, winglet style lugs and a slate-grey centre dial guillochéd by hand.
All of these references are powered by the microrotor 240-HU but there is something new, the birth of a model inspired by a unique piece from 1940, the World Time Chronograph 5930G debuts with a new caliber CH 28-520 HU, world time indication along a chronograph function.
In 2022, the Worldtime line saw two new references, the 5230P-001 in platinum with blue hand-guilloched with circular pattern center dial and the much desired 5231G-001 white gold case with Oceania and South-East Asia enamel center dial.
*The present reference 5131/1P-001 with North Pole world map is part of the signature wordtime wristwatches with enamel series reference 5131 that lasted well over two-decades, the line started with the yellow, white and rose gold versions, the collection came to an end with a very first full metallic bracelet “brick-style” made in platinum to match the 39.5mm case.
This noble metal is protecting a beautiful dial featuring a cloisonné enamel map depiction of the “North Pole”, with the borders of the continents coiled in 18k gold.
The Patek Philippe Genève branding is inscribed on the bezel, keeping the dial depiction elevant to what it is supposed to do – show the time in 24 different cities across the globe. The pusher at 10 o’clock sets the time to the desired city. The principle time zones are marked on the outer ring of the dial, surrounding the 24-hr inner ring.
A gold ring separates the inner-most part of the dial which is the incredibly gorgeous Cloisonné enamel depiction of the Arctic region. The outline of the continents is made out of gold coils, then the colors are hand-painted and then fired to extreme precision. The final result being this mesmerising picture showing the elements of the nature.
The quarters are marked by four gold dots on the inner dial.Seen through the case-back is the legendary Calibre 240 HU (Heure Universelle). A self-winding movement featuring a Spyromax balance spring and a 22K gold micro-rotor, providing 48hr power reserve.
The movement is beautifully decorated, with chamfered edges on the bridges and black-polished screws.This discontinued piece of art is offered with its full original set, including the Rare Handcraft certificate.
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.