15 Dec 2021

The manufacture’s mastery of artful gem-setting techniques transforms haute joaillerie models into precious jewels.

Everyone knows that the beauty of a Patek Philippe timepiece is more than just skin deep. They’re lauded for having revolutionised the watchmaking industry with a couple of world firsts in wristwatches, such as the split-second chronograph and the perpetual calendar shortly after in 1925.

They’re champions of the iconic Nautilus and World-Timers that remain timeless and highly desirable timepieces to this day, proving — humbly, no less — that their technical prowess and innovative designs are unmatched.

So yes, a Patek Philippe timepiece isn’t just all brains and brawn (if we count meticulous timing precision and its longevity as particular sets of strength when it comes to the test of time), but ultimately an object of beauty as well. In pursuit of mechanical perfection, flawless aesthetics follow closely behind.

In a Rare Handcrafts 2021/2022 exhibition that debuted at its Genevan home earlier this year, six exclusively decorated models were put on show, featuring exquisite designs that were achieved from hand engravings and the artistic techniques of enamelling. It also featured beautiful gem-set pieces, among which included the Ref. 7118/1450G Nautilus Haute Joaillerie.

Set in a full 18K white gold case with a matching bracelet, over 2,500 brilliant white diamonds complete the grandeur of this Haute Joaillerie Ladies’ Nautilus. The placement of snowset diamonds on the bezel, case, and bracelet, result in a radiating allure in a well-loved model.

While it remains that the execution of such an artistic craft is no easy feat, the manufacture is no stranger to elaborate diamante timepieces. Patek Philippe first executed this in the Ref. 7118/1450R-001 in rose gold, when they introduced the expansion of the Nautilus family at this year’s Watches & Wonders.

In this white gold version, blackened gold applied hour markers and matching hands lend contrast against the dazzling dial. 286 diamonds are arranged in a subtle wave pattern, creating a minute area of uniformity.

Anyone else would have been hard pressed to replicate the creation, but the Swiss manufacture has demonstrated through historic practice that it harbours cultivated techniques in all aspects of watchmaking, and refined aesthetics don’t demand any less.

The Ref. 5304/301R-001 Minute Repeater is a testament to this, marrying grand complications with aesthetic craft. The inner workings of the retrograde perpetual calendar are boldly exhibited through a sapphire crystal dial, where the self-winding Caliber R 27 PS QR LU also juggles a minute repeater and the flyback date display.

A total of 80 baguette diamonds — 58 on the bezel and lugs, and 22 on the clasp — give the timepiece a brilliant finish along the bezel and lugs.

Visit Emperor Watch & Jewellery at Hilton Hotel to explore the rest of the bejewelled creations by Patek Philippe.

581 Orchard Rd,The Hilton Shopping Gallery
#01-07/08, Singapore 238883
Tel: +65 6737 5227
emperorwatchjewellery.com/sg